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The Association between Dairy Consumption and the Risk of Developing Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and
Behnaz Sedighi1, Simin Jafari1, Shoboo Rahmati2
1Neurology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
Iranian Journal of Public Health
|July 10, 2026
Summary
This review found a weak, statistically significant inverse association between dairy consumption and multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. However, results were inconsistent, especially for cow's milk, highlighting the need for more research on dairy's role in MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Nutritional Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, disabling neurological disease affecting young adults.
- The relationship between dairy intake and MS risk requires comprehensive investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze existing literature on dairy consumption and multiple sclerosis (MS) risk.
- To assess the association, particularly focusing on cow's milk intake.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus) for studies up to 2024.
- Included RCTs, quasi-experimental, and observational studies; assessed quality using NOS; conducted random-effects meta-analysis.
Main Results:
- Twenty studies met inclusion criteria.
- Overall dairy consumption showed a weak, statistically significant inverse association with MS risk (OR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.93-0.99).
- Subgroup analysis revealed no significant association in cohort studies (RR=1.18) or for cow's milk alone (OR=0.88).
Conclusions:
- Pooled data suggest a potential, albeit weak, protective effect of overall dairy intake on MS risk.
- Findings are inconsistent and inconclusive regarding specific dairy products and study designs.
- Further rigorous longitudinal studies are essential to elucidate dairy's role in MS pathogenesis.
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