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type 1 diabetes), it is thought that a Omega-6 fatty acids and MS Autoimmune diseases
combination of genetic factors and Omega-6 fats may be involved in both the In general, diets low in saturated fat and high
environmental triggers cause the disease. development and treatment of MS. This in omega-3 fats can reduce the severity
Although genes are involved, evidence may be because people with MS do not of some autoimmune diseases such as
suggests that MS is more strongly related process them as well, leading to lower rheumatoid arthritis, while diets high in
to environmental factors which may levels than in people without MS. omega-6 fats may increase the severity.
include bacteria, viruses or components The possible exception is MS; there is
of the diet. Studies show that taking borage oil convincing evidence for a protective role
(containing the omega-6 fatty acid GLA) of both omega-6 and omega-3 fats in MS.
Geographical pattern can lower the number of relapses and
One of the most interesting features of MS is slow the disease. Some experts argue The immune system works best when
that it occurs mostly in countries far from the that it would be good for people with MS there is a good balance of omega-6 and
equator. It is relatively common in the UK, to add more omega-6 fats to their diets. omega-3 fats in the diet. The optimum
North America and Scandinavia, but rare in Others disagree saying that the evidence ratio varies depending on age and the
Malaysia and Ecuador. The reason for this is is not there and it should be avoided condition being treated. Some scientists
not really understood; it could be that MS is because of the potential negative health recommend ratios between 5:1 and 10:1
triggered by a bacteria or virus which thrives consequences. omega-6 to omega-3. Others suggest a
in cooler climates. Alternatively, it could be ratio of between 1:1 and 4:1 as being best.
that certain foods eaten in these countries An ideal way of getting enough (but not What are we getting? The current ratio
are responsible. too much) omega-6 is through increasing in our diet is estimated to be higher than
flaxseed oil in the diet, as it contains 15:1 and may be as much as 30:1 in some
Populations that eat lots of animal-based both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. people. We clearly need to increase our
foods are most affected by MS. In fact, many Some experts recommend consuming intake of omega-3s.
studies reveal a striking link between the four teaspoons of flaxseed oil daily
geographical pattern of MS and that of meat (higher than the 1-2 teaspoons-a-day You can improve your ratio by making a
and dairy food consumption. In general, the recommended normally). In general, a few simple changes: use olive oil in place
evidence shows that foods rich in saturated low saturated fat, plant-based diet, of sunflower or safflower oil, and flaxseed
fats are associated with higher levels of MS, containing both omega-6 and omega-3 oil in dressings and dips. If you want to
while foods rich in polyunsaturated fats are fats in a healthy balance may help improve the ratio further, take flaxseed oil
linked to lower levels. control MS. or an algal supplement.
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