Chapter 35 – Antioxidants for the Prevention and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: An Overview

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, inflammatory, demyelinating neurodegenerative disease affecting the central nervous system. Although its etiology remains unknown, it has been hypothesized that a dysregulation of the immune response towards different environmental factors, including nutrition, can promote the disease in genetically predisposed individuals. Accumulating data indicate that oxidative stress can play a role in the pathogenesis and symptom development of MS. As a consequence, the intake of appropriate amounts of antioxidants, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, lipoic acid, and coenzyme Q10, through diet or supplementation can be a promising tool for reducing the risk and slowing the progression of the disease. However, data in literature are still inconclusive; well-designed clinical intervention and prospective studies are warranted in order to assess whether antioxidant intake, in combination with other conventional treatments, might be beneficial in the management of MS.