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Worms may keep multiple sclerosis at bay

Parasitic infections could stop the immune system from self-attack.

Could a spoonful of worm eggs help patients to fight the crippling symptoms of a nerve disease? Perhaps, say scientists who suggest that patients with multiple sclerosis can benefit from certain types of parasitic infection.

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There've been theories that snake venom and bee venom are helpful too. So far as I know, in small studies they haven't been proven to help. Vitamin D is also believed to be good. Maybe fewer people in the tropical regions get MS because of the extra sunlight. My friend with M.S. wants to know if he should take his bee stings before eating his worms or after.

I believe it is not about the bizarre bee stings or parasitic worms - but about the effect it may have on the immune system. As long as there is no cure it is important to look open minded, but critical, to such possibilities.

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