A high dietary intake of lean and oily fish may slow the progression of disability in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), suggests a comparative population based study, published online in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.

The anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of the nutrients found in fish may be key, say the researchers, who add that their findings underscore the potential importance of diet in managing the disease.

Emerging evidence indicates that diet may have a role in the development of inflammatory diseases, including MS, explain the researchers. 

While previously published research has linked fish consumption with lower levels of disability among those with MS, few studies have looked at whether it might slow or lessen the progression of disability, they point out. 

To explore this further, they drew on 2719 newly diagnosed participants (average age 38) in The Epidemiologic Investigation of Multiple Sclerosis (EIMS) study, a Swedish nationwide population based case-control study, all of whom were recruited between April 2005 and June 2015.

On entry to EIMS, all participants provided information on environmental exposures and lifestyle habits, including their consumption of lean and oily fish, which was categorised as: never or seldom; 1 to 3 times a month; and weekly, and scored from 2 to 6, depending on whether they ate lean or oily fish, or both. 

Their disease progression, measured using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), was tracked for up to 15 years through the Swedish MS Registry.

Confirmed disability worsening was defined as an increase in the EDSS score of at least 1 point from baseline, sustained between two further check-ups, at least 6 months apart.

The highest fish consumption at diagnosis was associated with a 44% lower risk of confirmed disability worsening as well as a 45% lower risk of progressing to EDSS 3 and and a 43% lower risk of progressing to EDSS 4 compared with those who ate none or very little.

And the more lean and oily fish that was consumed, the lower was the risk of confirmed disability worsening and progression to EDSS 3 and 4, trends analysis indicated.

In 2021, 1719 participants completed an online follow-up questionnaire which assessed changes in fish intake over time. Some 412 (24%) had altered their fish consumption: 288 had increased it; 124 had decreased it. 

Those who increased their score from 2–3 to a score of 5–6 within 5 years after diagnosis (133) had a 20% lower risk of confirmed disability worsening, compared with those who continued to eat little or no fish (400). 

Only 16 participants increased their fish consumption from a baseline score of 2 to a score of 5–6, but they had a 59% lower risk of confirmed disability worsening, compared with those who remained at the lowest level of consumption (101).

The findings held true even when the potentially influential factors of physical activity, weight (BMI), smoking, alcohol intake, and sun exposure were accounted for. They also remained similar when further adjustment was made for vitamin D level.

This is an observational study, and as such, no firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect. And further research to validate the findings and investigate the underlying biological mechanisms is required, say the researchers.

But they suggest: “While omega-3 fatty acids, predominantly found in oily fish, may contribute to reduced disability progression, the beneficial effects observed from lean fish consumption suggest that other factors may also play a significant role. One such factor is taurine, an amino acid found in significant amounts in fish and seafood.”  

They explain: “Taurine is the most abundant free amino acid in the brain and, although there are endogenous mechanisms for its production, an exogenous supply is necessary to meet physiological needs.”  

They add: “Taurine has diverse cellular functions, including cytoprotective actions through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a potential therapeutic agent for neurological disorders.” 

And they conclude: “The results underscore the potential role of diet, particularly fish consumption, as a modifiable factor that could complement existing therapeutic strategies for MS.” 

Starting the morning on the right foot can set the tone for a productive day. Even when crunched for time before work or school, eating a filling breakfast before heading out the door is an important part of setting yourself up for success.

Between work, kids and making it to that early morning workout session, finding time to prepare a quick and tasty meal can be a real challenge. For a flavorful and easy breakfast that can be on the table in just 8 minutes when you’re in a rush, try this Quick Breakfast Skillet. With crispy bacon, scrambled eggs and rich cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect way to fuel your morning.

The secret, convenient ingredient: fluffy Minute Butter & Sea Salt Jasmine Rice Cups. Ready in just 60 seconds to fit into the day with no hassle, this versatile and flavorful ingredient is perfectly portioned in a BPA-free cup and features a delicious blend of familiar flavors to liven up breakfast.

Or try something new and delicious with this One-Pot Rice Shakshuka. A dish with origins in the Middle East and Northern Africa, shakshuka is traditionally made with a base of tomatoes, vegetables and seasonings, such as cumin and paprika. Then eggs are cracked on top and cooked in the sauce.

This version takes it a step further with the addition of Minute Instant White Rice, which provides a heartier texture to keep you feeling satisfied longer. Simply precooked and dried – nothing added but convenience – you can enjoy its light, fluffy texture after just 5 minutes in the microwave or on the stove. Plus, it works for those with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian.

Find more breakfast inspiration to keep you energized and ready to conquer the day at minuterice.com.

Quick Breakfast Skillet
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Servings: 1

1          Minute Butter & Sea Salt Jasmine Rice Cup
1          slice bacon, chopped
1          egg
1/4       cup cheddar cheese, shredded
            cracked black pepper

Heat rice according to package directions.

Heat medium frying pan over medium heat and add bacon. Cook about 4 minutes, or to desired doneness.

Scramble egg and add to frying pan. Cook 1 minute, or to desired doneness.

In bowl, mix rice, egg and bacon mixture and cheese. Top with cracked black pepper.

Tips: Breakfast sausage or breakfast potatoes can be substituted for bacon. Add favorite hot sauce for a little heat.

One-Pot Rice Shakshuka
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

2          tablespoons olive oil
1          onion, diced
1          red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1          teaspoon ground cumin
1/2       teaspoon smoked paprika
1          can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with garlic and herbs
2          cups water
1 1/2    cups Minute Instant White Rice  
6          eggs
1          tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

Heat oven to 400 F.

In high-sided, ovenproof skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion, bell pepper, cumin and smoked paprika; saute 8-10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Add tomatoes and water to skillet. Bring to boil. Stir in rice and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 3-5 minutes, or until most water is absorbed.

Using spoon, create six small wells in rice mixture. Crack one egg into each well. Transfer skillet to oven; cook 12-15 minutes, or until rice is tender, egg whites are set and yolks are runny, or until cooked as desired.

Garnish shakshuka with parsley before serving.

Tip: For spicy eggs, stir 1 tablespoon harissa paste into rice mixture before adding eggs. Or serve shakshuka with hot sauce.

Living a happier, healthier life often begins in the kitchen. From lunches on the go to sit-down family meals, keeping flavor at the center of your meal planning is key to maintaining healthy habits.

Based on Mintel’s 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends, experts predict that sweet, sour, smoky and spicy flavors will continue to rise in popularity among families in the United States this year. Show your family how much you care with delicious and nutritious dishes that don’t skimp on flavor. After all, it’s easier to stick to healthy eating when you find joy in the foods you share.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, stock up on pantry staples that deliver flavor and nutrition – without extra time in the kitchen. Whether you’re grabbing a snack on your way out the door or looking for ways to add protein to your next meal, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Tuna Packets are convenient and flavorful, delivering key nutrients.

Each packet is 100 calories or less and ready to eat with high-quality, responsibly sourced protein made with MSC-certified tuna, allowing you to dive into a world of deliciously seasoned, lean protein.

Your go-to wild caught tuna paired with the iconic blend of 18 herbs and spices, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna Packet with Old Bay Seasoning is a match made in seafood heaven. Perfect for when you’re on the go, the unique combination of flavor, convenience and value helps fight that pesky midday hump, recover from a tough workout or reminisce about a favorite childhood recipe.

For a quick bite when you’re looking for an easy solution, this Tuna Stuffed Avocado recipe is simple yet satisfying and full of flavor. The protein from the tuna and healthy fat from the avocado help to power you through your day and keep you feeling satiated longer. Now on shelves, you can enjoy lean protein with a mix of classic seafood seasoning in recipes like this one.

With the help of the flavor experts at McCormick, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Tuna Packet with Chili Lime is a convenient protein-packed snack. The joyful zing of lime and chili spice takes this next recipe to another level and can help add a burst of flavor to any meal.

If you’re hosting a crowd or preparing a snack for loved ones, Better-For-You Chili Lime Tuna 7-Layer Dip lets you indulge in fun recipes without ditching health goals. For an extra nutritious touch, serve with chopped vegetables.

Make mouthwatering flavor the right decision for your body and mind with additional better-for-you recipe ideas at ChickenOfTheSea.com.

Tuna Stuffed Avocado
Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2

1          packet (2 1/2 ounces) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna with Old Bay Seasoning
1/4       cup whole kernel cooked corn
1          tablespoon minced parsley
1          avocado
            lemon wedges, for serving

In bowl, combine tuna, corn and minced parsley.

Halve avocado and carefully remove seed.

Divide tuna mixture between avocado halves.

Serve with lemon wedges.

Better-For-You Chili Lime Tuna 7-Layer Dip
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 10

15        ounces canned beans (pinto, black, red, etc.), drained
1          cup nonfat Greek yogurt
1          cup guacamole
1          cup pico de gallo or salsa
1/4       cup sliced black olives
2          tablespoons low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
2          packets (2 1/2 ounces each) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna with McCormick Chili Lime
            sliced or chopped jalapenos or Serrano chilies (optional)
            lime wedges, for serving
            vegetables or tortilla chips, for serving

In 2-quart casserole dish, layer beans in single layer.

Add remaining layers: Greek yogurt, guacamole, pico de gallo or salsa, black olives, cheese and tuna.

Add additional layer of sliced jalapenos or Serrano chilies, if desired.

Serve dip with tortilla chips or sliced vegetables.