This might be my last piece on MS. I discovered that there are all sorts of ways to treat MS and even to avoid it. So enough "branching out" in this direction. Let's end this series on a positive note. (As I write this I still don't have a full-time job, I'm behind on my child support because of that, my dog died and there aren't a lot of positive notes in my life. . .but I digress . . .)

You may have seen it in the news. Stem cells, caffeine and even sunshine are said to be possible cures for MS. So exactly what are the facts regarding the prevention of MS?

According to experts, there are some facts that are undeniable:

An expert diagnosis using medical history, MRI, neurological exams, cerebrospinal fluid analysis and blood tests will result in accurate prevention methods.

Women who use oral contraceptives reduce the risk of getting MS by about 40 percent. Estrogen levels are increased by birth control pills and higher estrogen levels decrease the

chances of the immune system being susceptible.

Vitamin D also has an effect on the immune system. Therefore vitamin D in the diet also will reduce the risk of MS by 40 percent.

Still another way to prevent multiple sclerosis is by simply having a regular amount of caffeine in your diet.

Whether it is from coffee, tea, soda, pills or energy drinks, a recent study revealed that caffeine influences our DNA. This results in specific changes in the central nervous system. The study also demonstrated that the daily dose of caffeine "should be six to eight cups in order to prevent MS."

While this may appear to be a high dose, smaller doses (less than five) from various sources also have some affect on the prevention of the disease.

Last but certainly not least, management of your diet is the "most important thing" in the prevention of multiple sclerosis. There are numerous dietary elements that people can manage in order to insure that this disease never takes over their lives. Knowing exactly what they are and what influence they have on your body is half the battle.

Sunshine, caffeine and stem cells. . .pretty wild, huh?  So stock up on sunscreen, your favorite energy drink and support stem cell research, people.  I want to be writing when I'm 100! 

My name is Phoenix and  . . . that's the bottom line.