Could Your Gut Bacteria Trigger Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

by Diane McLaren August 12, 2025

A new MS study making headlines says … maybe ... and for good reason!

Researchers studied 81 pairs of identical twins, where only one sibling had been diagnosed with MS. Since identical twins share the same DNA, this study gave scientists a rare chance to explore other influencing factors.

What they found about MS was fascinating

The twin who had MS carried higher levels of two very specific gut bacteria; Eisenbergiella tayi and Lachnoclostridium. When these bacteria were transferred into mice, over 60% of the mice developed MS-like, neurological symptoms, including myelin damage (the insulating substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord e.g. much like insulation on an electrical wire), and partial paralysis.

Same genes - Different microbiomes - Drastically different outcome

To researchers, this may be one of the clearest links yet between the gut microbiome and autoimmune disease.

And for me?

“It’s powerful to see scientific research exploring these same links that have shown up in my own story, and in my wellness practice for many years.”

This study feels personal because over 40 years ago, I was diagnosed with MS.

The first 12 years were painful, confusing, and filled with limitations. I had no clear answers, and like so many others, I was told there was little I could do.
With the support of a wise and compassionate practitioner, I began to take a deeper look at what my body really needed, beyond just symptom relief.
Through food, herbs, and a whole-body approach focused on restoring balance, I began to rebuild my health from the inside out.

And the results changed everything, here's a summary of my healing journey.

Today, over 3 decades later, I’ve made it my life’s work to help others do the same. People have called me “colon-minded” and even “the queen of poo” and I smile every time because healing so often starts with the gut, and that matters a lot!

We often think of digestion as just … digestion, but your gut is also:

A major part of your immune system
A key player in inflammation
A communicator with your brain and hormones
And possibly, according to this study, a silent influence in the development of autoimmune conditions like MS

While the research is still evolving, one thing is clear: gut balance matters. Not just for comfort or energy, not just for MS, but for your entire health picture. And no matter your diagnosis or stage of life, it's never too late to support your gut in powerful, natural ways.

Want to Learn More About Gut Health?

Whether you’re facing inflammation, fatigue, autoimmunity, or simply want to feel more like you again … start with your gut! It’s where I always begin with clients, and it’s the foundation of my BODiWELL Methodology.

And if you are curious on how I address gut balance naturally, especially on immune-related conditions, explore more on Instagram/dianemclarennaturally and from my Healthy You Naturally Podcast.

Check out these specidic podcasts:

EP 1 My Story: How I conquered MS & discovered my passion for natural health
EP 7 The Mind-Gut Connection: Connecting the Dots
EP 18 & 19: The Gut and Its microbiomes - Out with the Old and In the with New:

EP 64: The Power of a Healthy Colon