What Foods Are Good for Transverse Myelitis? A Guide to Anti-Inflammatory Eating

Research indicates that chronic inflammation plays a significant role in autoimmune conditions like transverse myelitis. Choosing what foods are good for transverse myelitis can be a proactive step toward supporting your body's healing process and managing symptoms.

Quick Summary

An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein can help manage symptoms of transverse myelitis. Limiting processed foods, sugar, and excess saturated fat is also key to supporting nerve and immune health.

Key Points

• Anti-Inflammatory Focus: A diet rich in foods that reduce inflammation, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can help manage transverse myelitis symptoms.

• Support Nerve Health: Prioritize nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, and healthy fats from sources like fatty fish, eggs, and avocados to support nerve function and myelin repair.

• Avoid Inflammatory Triggers: Limit or eliminate processed foods, excess sugar, fried foods, and unhealthy fats, as they can exacerbate inflammation.

• Improve Gut Health: Boost your immune system and reduce inflammation by incorporating probiotic-rich fermented foods and high-fiber options into your diet.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support overall nerve function and help manage issues like constipation often associated with TM.

• Seek Medical Guidance: Consult with a doctor or dietitian before making significant dietary changes or taking supplements to ensure your plan is safe and effective for your specific condition.

The Role of Diet in Managing Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammatory neurological disorder affecting the spinal cord. Dietary strategies can help manage inflammation and support the nervous system, although there is no cure. An anti-inflammatory diet can positively influence the condition.

Top Anti-Inflammatory and Nerve-Supporting Foods

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and beneficial for nerve repair and reducing inflammation associated with TM. They may help rebuild the myelin sheath and could decrease relapse rates in similar autoimmune conditions. Good sources include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring, as well as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Antioxidant-Rich Fruits and Vegetables

Antioxidants combat oxidative stress, which can damage nerve cells and worsen inflammation. Consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables provides protective compounds. Examples include berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries), dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss chard), cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), and orange vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots).

Healthy Fats

Incorporating healthy fats supports neurological health and helps dampen inflammation. Avocados contain monounsaturated fats and potassium, which aids nerve function. Extra-virgin olive oil has oleocanthal, an anti-inflammatory compound.

Probiotics and Fiber for Gut Health

Gut health is linked to the immune system, and a healthy gut can help regulate inflammation. Fiber is also important for managing bowel and bladder issues common with TM. Beneficial foods include fermented foods like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, legumes (beans, lentils), and whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa).

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Certain foods can worsen inflammation and should be minimized. This doesn't necessarily mean a strict autoimmune protocol (AIP) is required, but even limiting these foods can help. Foods to limit include processed and fried foods, refined carbohydrates and added sugars, high-fat dairy products, excessive alcohol, and processed meats.

Recommended vs. Avoided Foods for Transverse Myelitis

Food Category	Recommended (Anti-Inflammatory)	Avoid (Pro-Inflammatory)
Protein	Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), lean poultry, legumes, eggs (if tolerated)	Processed meats (sausage, bacon), red meat (limit intake)
Fats	Olive oil, avocado, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds	Trans fats (margarine, shortening), fried foods, high-fat dairy
Fruits	Berries, apples, oranges, avocado, cherries	Dried fruit with added sugar, excessive high-sugar fruits
Vegetables	Dark leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes	Nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes) in some AIP diets
Grains	Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)	Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta), most packaged snacks
Beverages	Water, green tea, herbal teas, fruit juice (diluted)	Soda, sugary drinks, excessive alcohol

The Importance of Key Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining the myelin sheath and nerve cell health. Deficiency can lead to myelopathy, which resembles TM. Low B12 has been linked to some TM cases, so testing and supplementation under medical supervision may be needed.

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D is associated with increased risk and relapse rates in inflammatory neurological diseases. It helps modulate the immune system. Sources include fatty fish, fortified dairy, eggs, and moderate sun exposure.

Magnesium and Potassium

These electrolytes are important for nerve signal transmission and muscle function. Magnesium can also help calm nerves and reduce muscle spasms. Good sources include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and bananas.

Conclusion: Personalizing Your Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet offers benefits for transverse myelitis, but individual needs vary. It is recommended to work with a healthcare provider and a registered dietitian for a personalized plan. An elimination diet like AIP can help identify food triggers but should be medically supervised. Focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and anti-inflammatory nutrients supports the nervous system and well-being. For more information on diet and inflammation, you can visit The Myositis Association.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on anti-inflammatory foods: Incorporate fatty fish, berries, leafy greens, and nuts to combat inflammation.
• Support nerve health: Prioritize nutrients like omega-3s, B vitamins, and vitamin D to protect and repair nerve tissue.
• Avoid inflammatory triggers: Steer clear of processed foods, refined sugar, and excessive saturated fats.
• Improve gut health: Boost your immune system and reduce inflammation by incorporating probiotic-rich fermented foods and high-fiber options into your diet.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support overall nerve function and help manage issues like constipation often associated with TM.
• Seek Medical Guidance: Consult with a doctor or dietitian before making significant dietary changes to address transverse myelitis.

FAQs

Question: Can diet cure transverse myelitis? Answer: No, diet cannot cure transverse myelitis. However, adopting an anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense diet can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and support overall neurological health.

Question: Is a gluten-free diet necessary for transverse myelitis? Answer: There is no universal recommendation for a gluten-free diet for TM, but some individuals with autoimmune conditions find it helps manage symptoms. It is best to discuss a potential gluten sensitivity with your healthcare provider and consider a supervised elimination diet.

Question: Are there specific supplements recommended for TM? Answer: Key vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D are often discussed in relation to TM. However, you should consult your doctor before taking any supplements, as they can determine if you have a deficiency and the appropriate dosage.

Question: How important is hydration for TM patients? Answer: Staying adequately hydrated is very important for individuals with TM. Proper hydration supports nerve function and can help with managing common issues like constipation.

Question: Should all dairy be avoided? Answer: High-fat dairy can contribute to inflammation in some people. However, low-fat or probiotic-rich dairy, like yogurt, may be better tolerated and offer beneficial nutrients. Dairy tolerance is individual, so monitor your body's reaction.

Question: How can I reduce salt intake while on prednisone? Answer: Individuals taking corticosteroids like prednisone should limit salt intake to help reduce fluid retention and high blood pressure. Focus on using herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients rather than canned or processed foods to lower sodium.

Question: What are the main signs of an inflammatory diet? Answer: An inflammatory diet typically includes high amounts of processed foods, added sugars, refined carbs, and saturated fats. These can cause blood sugar spikes and chronic inflammation.

Citations

• Lybrate: Transverse Myelitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Cost. (2023) URL: https://www.lybrate.com/topic/transverse-myelitis
• Spine and Joint Pain Center: 7 Foods That May Heal Nerve Damage. (2024) URL: https://www.spinejointnj.com/7-foods-that-may-heal-nerve-damage/
• Transverse Myelitis Society: How We Might Lower Inflammation with Diet. (2025) URL: https://myelitis.org.uk/blog/how-we-might-lower-inflammation-with-diet/
• Everyday Health: 8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Multiple Sclerosis. (2025) URL: https://www.everydayhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis/anti-inflammatory-foods-ms/
• IQBAR: 8 Essential Foods for Your Nervous System. (2023) URL: https://www.eatiqbar.com/blogs/news/8-essential-foods-for-your-nervous-system
• The Myositis Association: Using food to help your body heal. (2025) URL: https://www.myositis.org/blog/using-food-to-help-your-body-heal/
• Healthline: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Diet: Foods to Limit, Eat, and More. (2024) URL: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/multiple-sclerosis-foods-to-avoid
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): [Myelopathy due to vitamin B12 deficiency presenting as transverse myelitis] (Abstract). (2002) URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11965427/
• JAMA Network: Low Serum Vitamin D Levels and Recurrent Inflammatory Spinal Cord Disease. (2011) URL: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/1108016
• WebMD: What Is the Autoimmune Protocol Diet?. (2024) URL: https://www.webmd.com/diet/autoimmune-protocol-diet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can diet cure transverse myelitis?

No, diet cannot cure transverse myelitis. However, adopting an anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense diet can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and support overall neurological health.

Is a gluten-free diet necessary for transverse myelitis?

There is no universal recommendation for a gluten-free diet for TM, but some individuals with autoimmune conditions find it helps manage symptoms. It is best to discuss a potential gluten sensitivity with your healthcare provider and consider a supervised elimination diet.

Are there specific supplements recommended for TM?

Key vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D are often discussed in relation to TM. However, you should consult your doctor before taking any supplements, as they can determine if you have a deficiency and the appropriate dosage.

How important is hydration for TM patients?

Staying adequately hydrated is very important for individuals with TM. Proper hydration supports nerve function and can help with managing common issues like constipation.

Should all dairy be avoided?

High-fat dairy can contribute to inflammation in some people. However, low-fat or probiotic-rich dairy, like yogurt, may be better tolerated and offer beneficial nutrients. Dairy tolerance is individual, so monitor your body's reaction.

How can I reduce salt intake while on prednisone?

Individuals taking corticosteroids like prednisone should limit salt intake to help reduce fluid retention and high blood pressure. Focus on using herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients rather than canned or processed foods to lower sodium.

What are the main signs of an inflammatory diet?

An inflammatory diet typically includes high amounts of processed foods, added sugars, refined carbs, and saturated fats. These can cause blood sugar spikes and chronic inflammation.