Mediterranean diet may slash MS risk for young nonsmoking adults

Following a Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting processed and sugary foods—may significantly lower the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a large study conducted in Sweden. However, the benefits of this dietary approach appear to be most pronounced among nonsmokers and individuals younger than 45.

Study Details and Findings

Researchers analyzed data from over 43,000 participants in the Swedish National March Cohort, collecting lifestyle and medical information, including dietary habits from 1997. Over a follow-up period of 17.6 years, 89 participants developed MS. The study, “Mediterranean diet and risk of multiple sclerosis: A prospective cohort study,” was published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal.

The researchers used a Mediterranean Diet Score, ranging from zero to nine, to assess adherence. Points were assigned based on intake of foods considered beneficial—like fruits, vegetables, fish, and healthy fats—and less favorable foods, such as meat and dairy. Moderate alcohol consumption also received positive scoring.

Did You Know? The Mediterranean Diet Score ranges from zero to nine, with higher scores indicating greater adherence to the diet.

Results indicated that each one-point increase in the Mediterranean Diet Score was associated with a 14% reduction in MS risk. The research team noted that adherence to the Mediterranean diet was “inversely associated with MS risk, supporting its potential neuroprotective role.”

Smoking and Age as Key Factors

The protective effects of the Mediterranean diet were strongly linked to smoking status. A 26% lower risk of MS was observed among nonsmokers, while no risk reduction was seen in smokers. Among nonsmokers, each additional point on the Mediterranean Diet Score corresponded to a 26% lower risk, and those with the highest adherence experienced an 81% lower risk compared to those with the lowest.

Age also played a significant role. Participants 45 years old or younger who increased their Mediterranean Diet Score by one point saw a 23% reduction in MS risk. The highest adherence group in this age bracket demonstrated a 72% lower risk compared to the lowest adherence group. No similar association was found in participants older than 45.

Expert Insight: These findings highlight the complex interplay between lifestyle factors—specifically diet and smoking—and the potential development of MS. The study suggests that dietary interventions may be most effective when combined with smoking cessation, particularly for younger individuals.

Researchers emphasized that these results “must be interpreted with caution,” acknowledging limitations such as the participant group and the relatively older age of participants at the study’s start. They suggest further research is needed, tracking dietary habits over time in more diverse populations and considering genetic and environmental risk factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is an eating plan based on foods traditionally consumed in countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and olive oil, while limiting red meat, sweets, and animal fats.

Did the study find a benefit for all ages?

No, the study found that the association between the Mediterranean diet and reduced MS risk was primarily observed in participants aged 45 or younger. No similar association was seen in those older than 45.

How did smoking affect the results?

The protective effect of the Mediterranean diet was significantly stronger among nonsmokers. No risk reduction was observed among smokers, suggesting a potential interaction between dietary patterns and smoking.

Given these findings, what role might dietary choices play in supporting long-term health and well-being?