- According to a recent study, people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) do not have the same composition of gut bacteria compared to individuals without MS.
- The findings indicate that types of gut bacteria in people who have MS may vary depending on whether they are experiencing symptoms.
- The research suggests a potential role for future MS therapies that target gut microbiota.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the brain and spinal cord that causes physical and cognitive impairment. Disease onset typically begins during a person’s 20s or 30s.
The initial phase is characterized by the activation of immune cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to inflammation and, ultimately, the destruction of nerve fibers.
A recent study found that some types of bacteria were more commonly found in people with MS, while others were more commonly found in people without the condition.
The results were published in Genome Medicine.
Dr. Achillefs Ntranos, a neurologist and MS specialist in Beverly Hills, CA, not involved in the study, explained the key findings to Medical News Today:
“This paper discusses the potential relationship between the gut microbiota and multiple sclerosis (MS). The gut microbiota produces various metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs). SCFAs, such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, have been shown to have immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, while LCFAs may have pro-inflammatory and disease-promoting effects.”
Studying gut bacteria and inflammation in MS
The study involved 148 Danish participants, with an equal number of people living with MS and healthy controls. At the start of the study and 2 years later, both groups gave blood and stool samples for analysis.
Using genetic testing methods, researchers identified the presence and types of bacteria in the gut and examine their impact. They noted that some of the changes found in MS patients were due to inflammatory processes.
The researchers highlighted how the presence of certain bacteria may contribute to overall health in individuals without active MS.
These bacteria are known for decreasing the overactive immune systems, and people with inactive multiple sclerosis had a greater amount of these.
The study also identified specific intestinal bacteria that generate certain fatty acids that the human body is unable to produce, called urolithin.
Gut bacteria and MS: What’s the link?
The human gastrointestinal tract is home to a diverse community of microbes known as the gut microbiome.
“Recent research has suggested that the gut microbiota may be involved in the development of neurological diseases, including MS,” Dr. Ntranos said.
“It has been suggested that gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiota, may lead to an altered ratio of SCFAs to LCFAs, which could contribute to the development of MS.”
“This paper finds that there are differences in the composition and function of the gut microbiota in individuals with MS compared to healthy controls and that treatment for MS may be associated with changes in the composition of the gut microbiota. Further research is needed to understand the role of specific bacteria and their associated metabolites in the development and progression of MS and to determine the potential for targeted interventions to manipulate the gut microbiota in order to manage the disease.”
– Dr. Achillefs Ntranos, neurologist and MS specialist
Implications for people with MS
Dr. Jeffrey Gladd, a practicing integrative medicine physician and chief medical officer at Fullscript, not involved in this research, told MNT the study offers valuable perspectives on a disease that has yet to be fully understood.
Dr. Gladd added the new research sets the stage for future clinical trials exploring the impact of certain bacteria and gut bacteria-derived compounds that affect the immune system.
Dr. Ntranos noted the findings “provide new insights into the potential role of the gut microbiota in the development of MS and suggest that treatments targeting the gut microbiota may potentially be effective in regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation in MS patients.”
Dr. Ntranos cautioned, however, that since this is a preliminary study, further research is needed to confirm these observations.
“It is important to consider that the etiology of MS is complex and not fully understood, with both genetic and environmental factors potentially contributing to its development,” Dr. Ntranos said.
“While targeting the gut microbiota may be a promising therapeutic approach, it is likely that a combination of interventions will be necessary to effectively treat or prevent the disease.”
More research on gut bacteria and MS still needed
The researchers note it will still be some time before they can provide specific advice on a health-enhancing lifestyle or probiotic supplements.
“While this new study has found that patients have different bacteria in their intestines compared to healthy individuals and that the composition and function of these bacteria may differ based on the activity of the disease and treatment status,” Dr. Ntranos said.
Promoting ‘good bacteria’
Dr. Gladd highlighted that “regardless of whether or not you have a history of MS, the benefits of consuming a diverse diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and other anti-inflammatory foods are clear and likely have far-reaching health effects for today’s health as well as your future health.”
Diet plays a major role in fostering a hospitable environment for good bacteria in the gut. Following an anti-inflammatory diet pattern, similar to the Mediterranean diet, is a good place to start.”
– Dr. Jeffrey Gladd, integrative medicine physician
Dr. Gladd noted the anti-inflammatory diet discourages the consumption of inflammatory foods and beverages like sugar, processed foods, and alcohol. “It’s best to limit or avoid these foods when possible,” he said.
For people living with MS or other chronic conditions who are interested in maintaining gut health, Dr. Ntranos offered a few general recommendations. Just be sure to talk with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Follow a mostly plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
These types of foods provide nutrients and prebiotics (the non-digestible fiber that feeds the good bacteria in the gut) that can support the growth and diversity of gut microbiota.
Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
Antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria in the gut, leading to an imbalance in microbiota. Only take antibiotics when they are medically necessary.
Consume fermented foods
Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria that can help support gut microbiota.
Get regular exercise
Exercise has been shown to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
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