P831 - THE EFFECT OF MEDITERRANEAN DIET ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: A PILOT STUDY

P831

THE EFFECT OF MEDITERRANEAN DIET ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: A PILOT STUDY

M. N. Ucak^1,*, S. Can², G. A. Colak¹, M. Bas¹

¹Institute of Health Sciences, Acibadem University, Istanbul, ²Sümeyye Can Nutrition Counselling Centre, Ankara, Türkiye

Rationale: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a Mediterranean diet on quality of life and diet adherence in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Highlighting the role of nutrition in MS management, it seeks to contribute to clinical practice.

Methods: A total of 24 MS patients were assessed for quality of life (MSLQ-54), Mediterranean diet adherence (MEDAS), age, disease duration, anthropometry, and nutritional status (MUST, NRS). Patients received a Mediterranean diet without weight loss goals and attended weekly online follow-ups for 3 months. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23. Changes over time were assessed with the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, diet adherence and quality of life were analyzed with Spearman’s Correlation, and malnutrition changes with Wilcoxon and McNemar tests.

Results: Five patients withdrew; data from 19 were analyzed. The Mediterranean diet improved physical and mental quality of life. Physical scores increased from 67.8 to 79.9 (p<0.01), and mental scores from 45.9 to 59.1 (p<0.05). Diet adherence improved (p<0.01). No significant NRS change was observed, but MUST scores decreased (p<0.05).

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Conclusion: The Mediterranean diet improved quality of life, malnutrition and adherence in MS patients. These findings support its potential in MS nutritional management and suggest considering dietary approaches in clinical practice. While the study is ongoing, It’s important to note that larger, long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Disclosure of Interest: None declared