Alcohol Consumption in Multiple Sclerosis
Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) can consume alcohol in low to moderate amounts, which may actually be associated with more favorable disease outcomes compared to abstaining completely.
Evidence on Alcohol Consumption in MS
Recent research provides interesting insights into the relationship between alcohol consumption and MS:
A 2024 study found that low and moderate alcohol consumption was associated with reduced risk of disability progression in relapsing-remitting MS compared to non-drinking, with hazard ratios between 0.81 and 0.90 1.
This protective association was stronger among women and in those who maintained consistent drinking patterns during follow-up 1.
A 2014 study demonstrated a dose-dependent inverse association between alcohol consumption and MS risk, suggesting alcohol consumption may attenuate the detrimental effects of smoking 2.
A 2017 study showed that patients consuming more than 4 alcoholic drinks per week had higher likelihood of lower disability scores (EDSS) and MS Severity Scores compared to abstainers 3.
Red wine specifically showed potential benefits, with patients drinking more than 3 glasses per week having greater odds of lower disability scores, though there was an observed increase in T2 lesion volume 3.
Practical Recommendations for MS Patients
Recommended Alcohol Limits:
- For women with MS: No more than 1 drink per day
- For men with MS: No more than 2 drinks per day
These limits align with general health guidelines for alcohol consumption 4.
Important Considerations:
Medication Interactions:
- Check for potential interactions between alcohol and MS medications
- Some medications may have enhanced sedative effects when combined with alcohol
Symptom Management:
- Alcohol may temporarily worsen certain MS symptoms like balance problems, coordination difficulties, or bladder dysfunction
- Monitor how alcohol affects your individual symptoms
Hydration:
- Remember alcohol has a diuretic effect that could lead to dehydration 4
- Maintain adequate hydration when consuming alcohol
Caloric Content:
- Be mindful that alcoholic beverages contain calories (e.g., a standard glass of red wine contains ~87 kcal) 4
- Consider this in overall dietary planning
Special Precautions
Avoid alcohol completely if you have:
- Liver disease
- History of alcohol abuse or dependence
- Advanced MS with significant disability
- Specific MS medications that contraindicate alcohol use
Conclusion
The evidence suggests that moderate alcohol consumption is not harmful for most MS patients and may even be associated with better outcomes in terms of disability progression. However, this should not be interpreted as a recommendation to start drinking for therapeutic purposes. Those who already drink moderately can generally continue to do so within recommended limits, while those who don't drink should not feel compelled to start.
Always discuss specific concerns about alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider, as individual circumstances may vary.