Swank/Paleolithic Diet for M.S.

April 25, 2002

I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis on April 31, 1999. Was

treated with I.V. Solu-Medrol for 7 days and decreasing oral

Prednisone for a few weeks. My symptoms of Optic Neuritis cleared up

and then and there I decided to find a better way to deal with my

disease. I was blessed to come upon some great books from courageous

people, and the Swank Diet was one of them. I began the diet in June

of 1999 and never looked back. I have lost 35 lbs., I have more

energy now than I have had in years (just turned 49 in March), I

completely eliminated the need for hormone replacement therapy by

using soy as part of my healthful diet, I also follow a good portion

of the Paleolithic Diet as well. I am not on any medications by

choice and my neurologist has agreed to let me go on this way because

of my continued health. I have had no exacerbations since 1999. I

just finished walking the annual M.S. walk here in Maine (5 miles).

This is my third year as a walker. I work full time in a medical

practice and have not missed a day of work since my initial

diagnosis. I also believe in the mind-body-spirit connection to

health. I practice TaiChi and some yoga. I know that to some this

way of life, i.e. eating such a restricted diet and keeping a lid on

stress is too demanding; I find the alternative to be too taxing. I

love my life and I thank God daily for the opportunity to live it to

the fullest. I have heard from many " nay sayers " that this is just a

remission, and right they are! I, like the patients in Dr. Swank's

studies, would like to remain in remission for the rest of my life!

I am positive that this diet and way of life have saved me many times

over from " stress induced " exacerbations,the one especially during my

divorce of a marriage of 26 years which was emotionally trying. Even

through the roughest period of starting my life over, I did not

become ill or lose my energy levels. This was truly miraculous, even

to my neurologist!

To anyone who is thinking of trying the diet, please remember that it

is a way of life, not just a temporary fix. It took 6 months for me

to feel the energy levels climb and for great health to kick in. In

my eyes there is truly no other way to live my life! Even if you are

on medication for your M.S. you owe it to yourself to feel as

energetic as you can while you take your meds.

Good luck and God bless.

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