Telehealth-based HALT-MS program explores how diet, exercise and psychology can help support self-management of multiple sclerosis
As thousands of cyclists prepare for this year's MS Gong Ride on Sunday 2 November to support people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), researchers from the University of Wollongong (UOW) are inviting participants to join a clinical trial that aims to improve MS management through lifestyle changes.
The HALT-MS trial, led by Professor Yasmine Probst from UOW's Eatright MS team within the School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, is testing how a telehealth-based program combining diet, exercise, and psychological support can help people with MS self-manage their symptoms and improve overall wellbeing.
The clinical trial is supported by $250,000 in funding to advance research into lifestyle management for people with MS.
"Events like the Sydney to Gong ride highlight how community spirit can drive awareness and action for MS," Professor Probst said.
"Our study gives people living with MS access to evidence-based lifestyle support from the comfort of their own home. It's about helping them take charge of their health in ways that make a lasting difference."
The free six-month program includes telehealth consultations with healthcare professionals, with a 6 month follow-up phase for people to try out the learnings from the study. Participants will also contribute to some of the first research exploring the link between diet, taste perception and the oral microbiome in MS.
Professor Probst, who lives with MS, aims to understand through her research how diet, physical activity, and behaviour change strategies can reduce the impact of MS and improve quality of life.
"Living with obesity and poor nutrition can increase the severity of MS symptoms," she said. "We want to support people in making sustainable changes that not only help them maintain a healthy weight but also improve fatigue, sleep quality, and day-to-day functioning."
The HALT-MS study is a collaboration between UOW and researchers across Australia, including Murdoch University, Monash University, University of Melbourne, University of Canberra, University of NSW and the Menzies Institute for Medical Research.
