Fife Womans’ Diet That Can Bring Help To MS Sufferers

AN ABERDOUR woman has launched a website aimed at sharing dietary advice with other Multiple Sclerosis sufferers.

Joanne Stewart (34), hopes the eating regime she has followed since being diagnosed with MS in 2006 can help others with the neurological condition to transform their lives.

Jo, originally from Gisborne in New Zealand, began the ‘Eating Well’ diet shortly after her official diagnosis, following a series of hospital appointments and months of ill health.

The diet is a refined version of the Swank Diet, devised by Dr Roy Swank, which promotes a very low intake of saturated fat. It has been followed by many MS sufferers who have reported improvements in their wellbeing as a result.

Jo’s website, launched this week, describes the changes she has made to her diet and the effects on her health.

She said: “After following this restrictive diet for a month, the benefits slowly began to show. First came more energy, I was sleeping better and started losing excess weight.

“Then I realised I had my co-ordination back and was more alert.”

Jo’s diet involved removing red meat and dairy products, keeping chicken breasts as a source of protein, and eating fish for its Omega 6, while avoiding all processed foods. It has helped her combat many of the symptoms of MS including fatigue and loss of mental alertness and balance.

She has also created many of her own recipes which she plans to share online, with a long-term ambition of perhaps selling a range of ‘Eating Well’ products.

Jo, who lives with her husband Euan and son Kyle, believes the diet could also be of great benefit to people suffering from other debilitating long-term illnesses, or those who just want to adopt a healthier eating pattern for life.

“I cannot remember feeling this well for many years and to this day I have not experienced another relapse,” she said.
“By eating well I feel in control and I am able to maintain my good health.
“And if I do have a turn, I know I have helped the NHS help me.”

She added: “I still need to be careful, as I am still diagnosed with MS and it cannot yet be cured. But that does not stop me from living my life to the fullest and making the most of every opportunity.”

An NHS spokesman advised anyone under medical supervision to check with their GP or registered dietician before making any changes to their diet.

For more information on Jo’s diet, visit her website www.just4joco.co.uk