Although nutritional factors have long been of interest in multiple sclerosis (MS), little is known about the influence of diet on the likelihood of childhood-onset MS. 
Dietary intake information for children with MS and children without MS are available from a study conducted in Canada. Using this study, Dr Eleanor Dunlop will investigate whether diets, foods or nutrients may help to reduce the risk of MS onset in children. Dietary factors, including following an anti-inflammatory diet, consuming ultra-processed foods, dairy products, fish, unprocessed red meat and other nutrients, will be statistically tested in relation to childhood MS onset.   
The results will provide new insights into the role of diet in the risk of MS onset and potentially lead to evidence-based dietary guidance for children at high risk of developing MS.
Dr Dunlop has completed her studies investigating whether consuming certain foods or nutrients influences the likelihood of developing MS during childhood. This includes testing the dietary intake data for associations between intake of macronutrients (protein, fat and carbohydrates) iron, milk, ultra-processed foods, unprocessed red meat, fish and eggs in relation to the onset of MS in children.
Dr Dunlop is preparing four scientific manuscripts for publication. Publishing these results will help us understand the role of diet as a potential risk factor or protective factor in the development of paediatric MS.
Updated 31 March 2025 
$150,000
2023
2 years
Current project
