What is the OMS Diet? A Comprehensive Guide

Developed by Dr. George Jelinek after his own diagnosis, the OMS diet is a plant-based wholefood diet designed to minimize saturated fat intake for those with Multiple Sclerosis. It is one pillar of a broader lifestyle program aimed at managing the disease and promoting overall well-being.

Quick Summary

The OMS diet is a low saturated fat, plant-based eating plan that includes seafood. It is a key component of a broader lifestyle program developed by Dr. George Jelinek to manage Multiple Sclerosis through diet, exercise, and stress reduction.

Key Points

• Low Saturated Fat: The OMS diet strictly minimizes saturated fat intake by eliminating dairy, red meat, and processed foods with hidden fats.

• Plant-Based Focus with Seafood: The diet is primarily plant-based, featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, with the addition of seafood, especially oily fish.

• Emphasis on Omega-3s: Daily supplementation with flaxseed oil is a key recommendation to increase anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

• Holistic Lifestyle Approach: The diet is one part of a wider program that includes exercise, meditation, sunlight exposure (for vitamin D), and a support network.

• Developed by Dr. George Jelinek: Created by an MS patient himself, the program is based on a review of medical literature and personal experience.

• Potential for Improved Well-being: Followers have anecdotally reported benefits such as reduced fatigue and improved mood, though more conclusive evidence is needed.

Origins and Core Philosophy of the OMS Diet

The OMS diet, or Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis diet, was created by Professor George Jelinek in 1999 following his personal diagnosis with MS. His mission was to find a way to manage his condition by addressing its root causes through lifestyle changes, rather than relying solely on conventional medication. Jelinek’s program is not just a diet; it is a holistic lifestyle approach encompassing seven pillars: diet, sunlight and vitamin D, exercise, meditation, medication, a support network, and positive mindset.

The core philosophy of the OMS diet is to reduce inflammation, protect nerve cells, and support overall health by eliminating or drastically reducing the intake of saturated fat. It emphasizes a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods while including seafood and supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids. By focusing on foods with anti-inflammatory properties and steering clear of those that can worsen inflammation, the diet aims to create an internal environment that minimizes the frequency and severity of MS symptoms.

The Seven Pillars of the OMS Program

While the diet is a critical component, it functions within a larger framework. The full OMS program includes:

• Diet: A plant-based, wholefood diet with seafood, low in saturated fat.
• Sunlight and Vitamin D: A focus on optimizing vitamin D levels through sun exposure and supplementation, which is vital for immune function.
• Exercise: Regular moderate physical activity, 30 minutes, 3–5 times a week, to improve physical and cognitive function.
• Meditation and Mindfulness: Daily practice to reduce stress, a known trigger for MS relapses.
• Medication: Using disease-modifying drugs when appropriate and in consultation with a healthcare provider.
• Family and Social Support: Building and maintaining a strong support network.
• Lifestyle Management: A commitment to leading a healthier life and engaging in supportive activities.

What to Eat and What to Avoid

The OMS diet has clear guidelines on which foods to embrace and which to eliminate to meet its low-saturated-fat goals.

Foods to Include

• Fruits and Vegetables: An abundance of all types, especially colorful berries and leafy greens, for antioxidants and fiber.
• Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat pasta provide energy and fiber.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are excellent sources of plant-based protein.
• Seafood: Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are encouraged for their high omega-3 content.
• Healthy Fats: Flaxseed oil is recommended daily for omega-3 supplementation. Nuts, seeds, and avocados (in moderation) are also included.

Foods to Exclude

• Meat and Poultry: Red meat and chicken are avoided due to their saturated fat content.
• Dairy Products: All dairy, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are eliminated. Egg yolks are also avoided for their high saturated fat.
• Processed Foods: All highly processed foods, especially those with added sugars and saturated or trans fats, are cut out.
• Unhealthy Oils: Coconut oil and palm oil are high in saturated fat and therefore restricted.

Comparing the OMS Diet to Other MS Diets

The OMS diet shares some similarities with other diets often explored by those with Multiple Sclerosis but has distinct differences. The table below compares the core tenets of the OMS diet with other popular MS dietary approaches.

Feature	OMS Diet	Swank Diet	Paleo-based Diets	Keto Diet
Core Philosophy	Plant-based, low saturated fat, includes seafood.	Very low saturated fat (max 15g/day), low meat.	Avoids all grains, dairy, and processed foods.	High fat, low carbohydrate, forcing ketosis.
Saturated Fat Limit	Strictly minimizes saturated fat.	Up to 15g per day.	Eliminated (dairy) or highly restricted (meat).	High fat intake, but typically low saturated fat.
Dairy	Excluded.	Restricted.	Excluded.	Excluded.
Meat/Poultry	Excludes red meat and chicken.	Restricted (red meat), allows white fish.	Allows lean meats, poultry, and fish.	Allows meat and poultry.
Seafood	Encouraged (especially oily fish).	Allowed (white fish), restricted (oily fish).	Encouraged.	Encouraged.
Grains	Allowed (whole grains).	Allowed (whole grains).	Excluded.	Excluded.
Legumes	Allowed.	Allowed.	Excluded.	Excluded.

Scientific Rationale and Potential Benefits

The OMS diet is grounded in the observation that diets high in saturated fat are often correlated with higher rates of multiple sclerosis. A low intake of saturated fat, combined with a high intake of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, is thought to help manage the disease by reducing inflammation. Omega-3s are crucial for the structural integrity of cell membranes and for producing anti-inflammatory compounds. The program's focus on a wholefood, plant-based approach also boosts antioxidant and fiber intake, which benefits gut health and further supports the immune system.

While some older studies on the OMS diet showed high dropout rates, limiting firm conclusions, anecdotal reports and some newer research suggest followers may experience benefits. These can include reduced fatigue, improved mood, and general well-being. It is important to note that the OMS program is not a cure but a strategy for managing the disease and improving quality of life.

Implementing the OMS Diet: Practical Steps

Starting the OMS diet involves making significant changes to eating habits. Here are some practical steps for implementing the plan:

1. Transition Gradually: Rather than overhauling your diet overnight, begin by slowly phasing out restricted foods and introducing more whole, plant-based options.
2. Focus on Substitutions: Find satisfying alternatives for dairy and meat. Soya, oat, and almond milks, along with tofu, legumes, and plenty of fish, can provide the necessary protein and nutrients.
3. Prioritize Omega-3s: Make a commitment to incorporating omega-3-rich foods and supplements daily. Flaxseed oil is a cornerstone of the diet, along with oily fish.
4. Embrace Whole Foods: Shift your cooking and eating habits toward whole, unprocessed foods. This means a greater emphasis on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
5. Read Labels Carefully: Learn to identify hidden saturated fats and processed ingredients in packaged foods. Many store-bought alternatives contain unhealthy oils, so vigilance is key.
6. Plan Your Meals: To make the transition smoother, plan your meals and snacks in advance. The OMS website offers a wealth of recipes and resources for followers.

Conclusion

The OMS diet is a well-structured dietary component of a broader lifestyle program designed to help individuals with multiple sclerosis manage their condition. By focusing on a plant-based, low-saturated-fat approach, the diet aims to mitigate inflammation and support neurological health. While not a cure, the OMS program provides a holistic framework that many people report to be beneficial for improving their physical and mental well-being. However, as with any major dietary change, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to ensure all nutritional needs are being met and to discuss whether the program is appropriate for your specific health situation.

Visit the official Overcoming MS website for more resources and information on the full program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the OMS diet?

The primary goal is to manage multiple sclerosis symptoms and improve overall health by reducing inflammation through a diet low in saturated fat and high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

Is the OMS diet a vegan diet?

No, the OMS diet is not strictly vegan. It is a plant-based diet but includes fish and seafood. It does, however, exclude all dairy products and meat.

Does the OMS diet recommend supplements?

Yes, the OMS program recommends daily flaxseed oil for omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D supplements, particularly for those with limited sun exposure.

Are there any studies proving the OMS diet works?

Research has not provided conclusive evidence of the diet's benefits, with high dropout rates in some studies limiting firm conclusions. However, many followers report feeling better physically and mentally.

Can people without MS follow the OMS diet?

Yes, the OMS food guidelines are similar to general healthy eating principles and can be beneficial for the general population by reducing the risk of heart disease, improving mood, and boosting overall health.

What kind of fish are recommended on the OMS diet?

Oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and herring, are recommended due to their high content of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

How does the OMS program help with stress?

The OMS program includes daily meditation and mindfulness as a key pillar to help reduce stress, which can trigger MS relapses.