When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the young age of 13, I was terrified. The disease was scary enough for an adult but it was even scarier for a child. The diagnosis was a prophecy of the uncertainty that would dominate the rest of my life: I could become permanently disabled, or I could never have another exacerbation. Multiple sclerosis is unpredictable. It was at that time, the beginning of my eighth-grade year, that I had to come to accept my new condition.

Thanks to the advances in modern medicine, the diagnosis was not a death sentence. I immediately began a course of treatment, which took the form of weekly intramuscular shots. I responded positively to them: the MRIs showed healing of old lesions and reduced numbers of new ones. Physical and occupational therapy helped me to regain the use of my right arm. Strong prescription contact lenses corrected my poor eyesight and yearly examinations by a specialist would monitor for neurological changes. I had emotional support from friends and family. I got the opportunity to attend a camp specifically for children with multiple sclerosis, where I forged friendships and eventually became a group leader. With time, my life returned to some semblance of normality.

There is one less common treatment for multiple sclerosis that I did not take full advantage of until recently. During my freshman year of college, I gained about 15 pounds. I made poor food choices and spent more time at my desk than outside riding my bike. Admittedly, my original desire to lose weight was more for vanity rather than health. However, after making mild dietary changes and joining a gym, I noticed crucial changes in my health. The biggest difference I saw was in my energy levels. As an MS patient, even if I was not having an attack, I was fatigued. No amount of medicine or caffeine made a difference. It was chronic, and it was debilitating. Suddenly, with my new lifestyle changes, I found myself with energy that I hadn't felt since before my attack.

I realized there was a flaw with my discovery: it is normal for people to feel more energy once they lose weight. I knew my situation was different, though. In high school, when my diet was still relatively unhealthy, I was not overweight at all. In fact, I was petite. Yet I had problems with chronic fatigue, anxiety, and mental fogginess. I wanted to find out if my specific food choices were influencing my condition more than all other factors.

Starting my sophomore year of college, I loaded up on whole foods and supplements. The only medications I used were my shots and the occasional Advil for side effects. I canceled my gym membership to create a control. Every morning, as I prepared my coffee, I took supplements deemed beneficial to multiple sclerosis patients: magnesium, fish oil, B complex, high-calcium multivitamin and astronomical levels of Vitamin D3. My breakfast normally consisted of blackberries, whole-grain blueberry waffles with all-natural peanut butter, no-hormone eggs or bananas. For lunch, I nibbled on something like salad (no dressing) or MSG-free soup. I considered dinner to be my favorite meal because it was my time to chow down on fresh vegetables -- I may be one of the few people whose favorite foods are vegetables. I ate delicious foods like string beans, sweet peas, carrots, bell peppers and broccoli. I did not necessarily count calories but instead, ate slowly until I was full. I listened to my body, paying close attention to particular cravings. I drank two liters of water every day. I examined food labels like a private investigator reads case files.

Not only did the weight drop off, but my hunch proved correct: my dietary changes made a positive difference in every part of my life, including my neurological condition. I had consistent energy throughout the day. It was easier to fall asleep and to stay asleep. My mental clarity was at its peak: my grade-point-average soared to almost a 4.0. My mood swings were less dramatic, and even my menstrual cycles became bearable. Minimal self-esteem grew into confidence. At last, I felt like I gained control of my life: I managed to turn a chronic disorder into a manageable symptom.

I am writing this article from the perspective of someone suffering from multiple sclerosis, but I am certain dietary changes would positively affect anyone with a similar neurological condition. Making healthy food choices can prevent diseases like heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. It can also improve the symptoms of depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Unfortunately, we are sometimes faced with difficult medical decisions, but we do have some choice: we can choose to take care of ourselves the best we can. Drink plenty of water, get much-needed sleep and make conscious food choices.

Watch your plate. Be kind to your stomach.