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Healthy intestines stop multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's

Having healthy intestines is sometimes seen as an insurance policy against multiple sclerosis (MS) and other chronic central nervous system diseases, such as Parkinson's disease. 

Microbes in the gut produce substances that encourage our immune cells to destroy harmful viruses in the brain and nervous system. Viral infections in the brain and spinal cord are thought to trigger MS. The intestinal microbes may also protect against other central nervous system diseases such as paralysis, Parkinson's disease and stroke. Bad eating habits and antibiotics affect our gut bacteria, making us more susceptible to these diseases. 

Research with laboratory mice

To test this idea, researchers at the University of Utah's School of Medicine conducted a trial on a group of laboratory mice. Some mice had healthy intestinal microbes and others had bacteria-free intestines. A dose of mouse hepatitis virus, which infects cells in the central nervous system and produces MS-type symptoms, was injected into both groups. In the end, only the bacteria-free mice were infected. When these mice were given ‘good’ intestinal bacteria, they also started an immune reaction that reversed paralysis and other neurological damage. 

Good dietary habits

“Signals from microbes are critical for the rapid removal of viruses from the central nervous system and for preventing damage from MS-type diseases. Our results emphasize the importance of a diverse bacteria population in the intestines”, said June Round, one of the researchers. She adds that following a course of antibiotics, it is important to maintain good dietary habits and to supplement the good bacteria with probiotics. 

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