Caffeine may help ward off MS

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01 Jul 2008

Scientists in the US have found that drinking caffeine, such as coffee, can help protect against multiple sclerosis (MS).

A new study from the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in collaboration with Cornell University and Finland's University of Turku, demonstrated that mice immunised to develop a condition similar to MS were protected from the disease by consuming the equivalent of six to eight cups of coffee a day.

The researchers suggest that the caffeine prevented white blood cells, which play a central role in immune responses, from reaching the central nervous system and triggering autoimmune reactions associated with MS in humans.

Commenting on the results, co-author of the study Dr Linda Thompson said: "This is an exciting and unexpected finding, and I think it could be important for the study of MS and other diseases.

"If you found a correlation between caffeine intake and reduced MS symptoms, that would point to further studies in humans."

According to the report, the research holds the potential for investigating new treatments to protect against other autoimmune conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

However, it is important to be aware that high levels of caffeine can have a detrimental effect on health. Previous studies have found that daily consumption of more than 400mg of caffeine can cause nausea, heart palpitations and even increase risk of diabetes.

Statistics show that MS affects approximately 2.5 million people worldwide. Protection against the disorder would prevent the often debilitating symptoms, which include weakness, loss of muscle coordination and problems with vision.

Click here to visit the Multiple Sclerosis Quick Guide ADNFCR-1528-ID-18663933-ADNFCR

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