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Vitamin D Possible MS Help Vitamin D is a hormone, or chemical messenger, in the body. Dietary sources of vitamin D include fish and fortified foods, such as dairy products and breakfast cereals. Vitamin D is produced in the skin in response to sunlight, but this production is limited by geographic location, skin pigmentation, and season. Some researchers have studied populations and suggested that there is a correlation between low vitamin D levels and MS. Scientific studies indicate that vitamin D alters immune function in a way that may be desirable in MS. In addition, a handful of studies using an animal model of MS provide further support for the idea that vitamin D plays a protective role in MS. One preliminary short-term human study found that a compound similar to vitamin D did not produce either harm or benefit in 11 people with MS. These findings are not conclusive, and further research in this area is necessary. Another role for vitamin D among people with MS relates to its better-understood role in maintaining bone density. There is increasing awareness that low bone density (osteoporosis) may be under-diagnosed in many people, including those with MS. Importantly, many people with MS have risk factors for developing osteoporosis: Female gender; Decreased physical activity Decreased exposure to sunlight; and Frequent treatment with steroids The National MS Society is supporting a clinical trial of vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis in people with that may provide better information on this subject. In the meantime, people with MS who have these risk factors may consider having bone density tests and taking supplements of vitamin D and calcium (see section on Calcium). Recommended intake of vitamin D is 200 to 600 IU daily. Doses greater than 2,000 IU daily may cause toxic effects, and should not be used unless prescribed by a physician. The Antioxidant Vitamins Source(s) Draconian Special Thanks Family and Friends Back - Home - Next |