MS LIVING SYMPTOM FREE

A guide to minimizing symptoms associated with Multiple Sclerosis emphasizes the benefits of major lifestyle changes.

Bryant’s book joins a growing list of self-help titles aimed at empowering those suffering with the mysterious autoimmune disorder of Multiple Sclerosis, himself included. While no known cures for MS are available, Bryant believes, as do others, that the symptoms usually associated with MS—which typically grow in frequency and severity with age—can be dramatically minimized through a variety of strategies. Symptoms include problems with balance and vision, diminished resistance to infection, bone thinning and bouts of depression. Bryant acknowledges that not every case of MS will improve with his plan, but he strongly recommends that all MS patients embrace major lifestyle changes. These changes include consistent daily exercise, a diet emphasizing organic food and megadoses of certain vitamins. To provide an example, the author shares his own exercise and diet program that he reports has left him symptom free. He concludes that his self-help guide, which contains more than two dozen easy-to-prepare recipes, can help eliminate signs of MS in others, too. Much of Bryant’s advice, however, is not new; it can be found in a number of self-help health books that reflect a naturopathic and alternative philosophy of medicine. His advice about the importance of daily exercise in coping with MS would likely be supported by most traditional doctors, as might his emphasis on maintaining optimism. His assertion that “We can do anything even when living with a disabling disease” might seem like an unrealistic view from the vantage point of a conventional doctor, but few people would dissuade an MS patient from radiating with such optimism. A major caveat, albeit a serious one, involves Bryant’s advice about vitamin megadoses—claims for which he rarely cites his sources, even though reputable medical researchers are increasingly raising questions about the potential toxicity of such megadoses.

A chatty, clear MS self-help guide that may prove helpful to a wide variety of readers.