Examining the Impact of an Online, Non-restrictive Diet Among Persons With Multiple Sclerosis

The current study aims to test an online, non-restrictive diet among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Diet is the number one searched second-line therapy among persons with MS, however there are currently no established dietary approaches to improve health and wellbeing among persons with MS. Participants will complete the 8-week diet program using an online application. The primary research question is whether the diet program is acceptable and can improve general health indicators including cholesterol, glucose, body weight, body fat as well as MS symptoms (i.e., walking, cognition, fatigue, and quality of life).

The intervention will involve 8 weeks of an online diet program. Outcomes testing will occur at baseline and post-intervention (following 8 week diet program). During the first 4 weeks, participants will receive educaitonal material and log their daily points in an online application and attend a weekly check-in call with members of the research team. During weeks 5-8, participants will log their daily points in the online application.

Change in the Brief International Cognitive Assessment in MS Scores. Scores range from 0-208 with higher scores indicating greater cognitive functioning.

Change in Fatigue Severity Scale Scores. Scores range from 1-7 with higher scores indicating greater fatigue.

Change in SF-12 Scores. Scores range from 0-100 with higher scores indicating greater health-related quality of life.

Participants ratings of satisfaction with the diet program. Scores range from 1-5 with higher scores indicating greater satisfaction.

Inclusion Criteria: age 18-70 years a self-reported diagnosis of multiple sclerosis relapse free in past 30 days non-pregnant willing and able to visit University of North Texas on two testing occasions Exclusion Criteria: electronic medical implant, such as a heart pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)