Taking Control of Your Health

  • MSNZ
  • Taking Control of Your Health
a woman sitting on a couch holding a dog

Brain health is a critical focus for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Protecting and preserving brain function can help slow disease progression, reduce disability, and improve quality of life. MSNZ supports international brain health guidelines and encourages people with MS, their whānau, and health professionals to follow evidence-based recommendations.

Naturally, receiving an MS diagnosis may create a sense of lost control over your health. It is important to recognise that there are several evidence-based measures you can adopt to proactively influence your MS through lifestyle modifications.

By prioritising your wellbeing, you not only enhance your overall health but also improve your MS journey, increasing your chances of leading a long and fulfilling life.

Embracing resiliency, lifestyle modifications and self-managment, empowers you to take an active role in your health and well-being, with the potential to make a positive impact on your experience with MS.

There are lots of ways you can take control of your own health...

Health and Wellbeing

Be proactive in monitoring your MS

  • Early and effective treatment with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can reduce disease activity and slow disability progression.
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring help ensure treatments are working and allow for timely adjustments.
  • Download our handy resource to keep track of everything you need to tell and ask your neurologist.

Keep Physically Active

  • Regular exercise, especially aerobic activity, is associated with better brain health, faster information processing, and preserved brain tissue volume.
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, as tolerated.

Keep Your Mind Active

  • Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as reading, puzzles, learning new skills, or creative hobbies.
  • Plan ahead, set goals and practice fatigue management.
  • Staying mentally and physically active helps protect against cognitive decline.

Promote Good Gut Health

  • Emerging research suggests a healthy gut microbiome may support brain health in MS.
  • Eat a varied, fibre-rich diet.
  • Consider probiotics if recommended by your health team.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

  • Obesity is linked to more MS lesions and faster disease progression.
  • Follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly and aim for a healthy body weight.
  • Speak to your health team if you need some advice or help.

Avoid Smoking

  • Smoking is associated with decreased brain volume, higher relapse rates, increased disability, and more cognitive problems in MS.
  • Seek support to quit smoking if needed.

Limit Alcohol

  • Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect brain health and overall well-being.
  • Drink in moderation or avoid alcohol if possible.

Get Enough Good Sleep

  • Good quality sleep supports brain health, mood, and energy levels.
  • Poor sleep can impact cognition in MS.
  • Maintain regular sleep routines and seek help for sleep problems.

Manage Comorbidities

  • Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can worsen MS outcomes.
  • Take prescribed medications and attend regular health check-ups.

Nurture Your Mental Health

  • Manage stress, anxiety, and depression through relaxation techniques, social connection, or professional support.

Stay Socially Connected

  • Social engagement supports brain health and emotional well-being.
  • Regional MS Societies have a range of social groups to explore.

Stay Informed

  • Keep up to date with the latest research and recommendations.

Advocate For Yourself

  • Request the highest standard of care and support from your health professionals.
  • If you need some help, contact your local MS Society

Knowledge is Power

At Multiple Sclerosis NZ, we’re committed to providing clear, practical, and reliable evidence-based information to support people with MS, their families, and health professionals. By being informed you can take control of your health, make the right choices for you and ultimately manage your MS as best you can. We invite you to explore our website containing a wealth of information.

We also provide a range of resources from booklets and information sheets to posters and symptom management guides, all designed to help you understand and live well with multiple sclerosis. Our Living Well with MS booklet is a great starting point, offering an overview of MS, diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment options, along with insights on living well day to day. It is also a useful resource for family, whānau, friends and those supporting people with MS.

18 Regional MS Societies across Aotearoa are also on hand to offer a variety of information, support services, groups, connections and referrals to specialist services. Services are for people with MS, their families, whānau, carers and employers. We encourage you to connect with them and see how they can support you to live your life with MS.