Your Microbiome Might Predict Multiple Sclerosis Risk—New Insights Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated condition that affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, sensory changes and visual disturbances. Researchers are investigating many possible contributors to MS risk; one promising area is the gut microbiome, the complex community of microorganisms in the digestive tract. Understanding the Gut Microbiome and Multiple Sclerosis What is the gut microbiome? The gut microbiome comprises trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes that influence digestion, nutrient production and immune function. A diverse, balanced microbiome supports barrier integrity and helps regulate inflammatory responses. Link between gut microbiome and MS Multiple observational and mechanistic studies have reported differences in gut bacterial composition between people with MS and healthy controls. This “neuro–autoimmunity–gut” link suggests that changes in the microbiome could modulate systemic immunity in ways that influence MS onset or progression. For an accessible overview of recent findings, see [How Your Gut Microbiome Could Predict Multiple Sclerosis Risk | InnerBuddies Insights](https://www.innerbuddies.com/blogs/gut-health/how-your-gut-microbiome-could-predict-multiple-sclerosis-risk-innerbuddies-insights). The MS gut bacteria profile: what studies show Common changes in gut bacteria among people with MS include reduced abundance of some anti-inflammatory taxa and increased representation of bacteria associated with pro-inflammatory pathways. These differences are not universal, but recurring patterns—such as lower levels of short-chain fatty acid producers—can help explain altered immune signaling. How these bacterial changes affect MS development Microbial metabolites and cell-surface molecules can influence immune cell differentiation and trafficking. For example, reductions in bacteria that produce butyrate and other short-chain fatty acids may weaken regulatory T-cell responses and intestinal barrier function, potentially increasing systemic inflammation and facilitating autoimmune activity against myelin. Gut health and autoimmune diseases: broader perspective Similar microbial associations have been observed in other autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes. This broader evidence base supports the idea that microbiome composition helps shape immune tolerance and inflammatory propensity across multiple diseases. Diet and MS: nourishing your gut Dietary patterns that support microbial diversity—fiber-rich vegetables, whole grains, legumes and fermented foods—promote beneficial metabolites and microbial resilience. Omega-3–rich foods, such as oily fish and flaxseed, have anti-inflammatory properties that may be relevant to symptom modulation. Conversely, highly processed foods, excess sugar and saturated fat can favor pro-inflammatory microbial shifts. Personalizing gut health Microbiome testing can describe individual bacterial profiles and highlight imbalances for targeted dietary and lifestyle strategies. InnerBuddies provides microbiome-focused resources and personalized nutrition guidance; learn more about microbiome-informed dietary approaches in related content such as Gut Feeling: Exploring the Keto Diet and InnerBuddies Personalized Gut Microbiome Nutrition. Additional services and testing options are summarized at InnerBuddies Microbiome Test. Conclusion Current evidence supports a meaningful relationship between the gut microbiome and MS risk and progression. While causality remains under investigation, understanding individual microbiome profiles and adopting dietary patterns that support microbial diversity are plausible components of broader risk-reduction and symptom-management strategies. Ongoing research will refine how microbiome data can be integrated into clinical decision-making.