Macronutrients Intake in Iranian Multiple Sclerosis Patients

The objective of this study was to assess intake of macronutrients in MS patients. 108 MS patients were randomly selected from Iranian MS society in Tehran in 2005. Two questionnaires regarding personal and medical information were filled for each patient. Food intake was assessed by three 24 h recalls and a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The recorded data were converted to values in grams using Manual for Household Measures and then to nutrient ingredients by nutritionist 3 application. Data was analyzed by SPSS; mean and standard deviation of each macronutrient was calculated; student`s t-test was applied to compare the results with reference values. Protein and carbohydrate intake in Iranian MS patients were less than recommended, while their daily intake of total and saturated fat were higher than reference values. Their intake of polyunsaturated fat and dietary fiber was shown to be less than recommended. Body mass index in 14.8% of patients was lower than normal and in 38% of them showed to be higher than normal. It seems nutritional assessment, counseling and education to improve diet is necessary in Iranian MS patients.