Health & Wellness

Let’s be real — summer can be brutal when you have multiple sclerosis. Between the blazing heat and the constant risk of fatigue or flare-ups, your body needs every ounce of support it can get. One of the most underrated ways to stay ahead of the heat? Eat and drink smarter.

The foods and beverages you choose can help you stay hydrated, reduce inflammation, and even keep your core temperature more stable. Here’s how to beat the heat from the inside out.

Hydration is non-negotiable

People with MS often experience dysautonomia or bladder dysfunction, which can complicate hydration. But here’s the thing: even mild dehydration can worsen fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and heat sensitivity — basically a fast track to an MS meltdown.

Hydration hacks:
 

• Aim for 2 to 3 liters of water per day, but check with your doctor if you’re on diuretics.
• Infuse water with cucumber, mint, lemon, or berries for flavor without sugar.
• Use electrolyte tablets or low-sugar sports drinks if you’re sweating a lot.
• Drink small amounts consistently — don’t chug all at once.
• Incorporate coconut water as well. Natural electrolytes can go a long way on hot days.

Hot tip: If your pee is dark yellow, it’s a red flag. Go sip something right now. If this is a common occurrence, especially if linked to painful urination, check in with your physician as soon as possible. 

Cooling foods that fight inflammation

What you eat matters. Some foods naturally cool the body and also support anti-inflammatory pathways — ideal for managing MS symptoms.

Try incorporating:

• Cucumber and watermelon (high water content and cooling properties)
• Leafy greens (spinach, romaine, arugula — loaded with antioxidants)
• Berries (especially blueberries and blackberries — great for brain health)
• Greek yogurt (probiotics + protein = gut and muscle support)
• Avocados and nuts (healthy fats to protect your nervous system)

Foods that turn up the heat (literally)

Just as some foods help you cool down, others make it harder to cope — especially in the summer.

Try to limit:

• Fried or greasy foods (can slow digestion and increase body heat)
• Caffeinated drinks (can dehydrate and increase bladder urgency)
• Sugary sodas and cocktails (spike then crash — not worth it)
• Processed meats (high in sodium, which increases water retention)

Instead, opt for a fresh grilled salmon taco or a chilled chickpea salad. Your body will thank you.

Easy cooling snacks on-the-go
 

• Frozen grapes or blueberries
• Chia pudding with coconut milk
• Cucumber hummus wraps
• Watermelon cubes with lime
• DIY electrolyte popsicles (coconut water + fruit)

Your summer food choices aren’t just about flavor — they’re about function. With MS, everything you eat or drink either fuels your wellness or drains it. So fill your plate (and your glass) with cool, colorful, water-packed power. It’s one of the easiest ways to fight fatigue, avoid flare-ups, and enjoy the season with confidence.