Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. Based on a review of multiple research studies, a medical team from Université Pierre et Marie Curie, France found that vitamin D deficiency is likely to be a risk factor for developing MS. Other risk factors include environmental and genetic factors. Immunologic tests show that vitamin D plays a key role in the regulation of T lymphocyte cells, and these cells are involved in the development of this disease. Furthermore, a majority of MS sufferers have shortage of this vitamin, especially at the onset of this disease, according to the review, published in the July 2010 issue of "Brain."
Vitamin D For MS Treatment
The blood levels of vitamin D are evaluated based on the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D or 25-OH-D test. By increasing the 25-0H-D levels by 50nmol per liter, an individual with MS can significantly decrease the chances of relapses, according to a study published in August 2010 issue of "Annals of Neurology." This study involved 145 patients with MS and was conducted by a research team from Australia.
Another study from September 2009 issue of "Journal of Neurology" discussed the basis of using vitamin D for treating MS. The researchers found that vitamin D helps improve the immune system, reduce brain inflammation and therefore may influence the progression of MS. The clinical trials conducted so far on the therapeutic potential of vitamin D show encouraging results, and larger studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Sources
Beside the manufacture of vitamin D in the body while exposed to sunshine, other sources include foods like fish, dairy products and fortified cereals. Vitamin D is also available as an over-the-counter supplement in North America. If necessary, your doctor can also prescribe the vitamin in stronger doses.
Dosage
For healthy adults a daily dose of 1000 to 2000 UI of vitamin D is usually recommended. For MS sufferers the doses are higher, based on the blood levels of 25-0H-D and severity of symptoms. You need to closely monitor vitamin D blood levels, as over dosage may cause kidney stones and muscle weakness.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of vitamin D and other supplements that may help improve your condition. A healthy diet is also important in MS, so you need to also work with a nutritionist. As of February 2011, vitamin D is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat MS and should not be used to replace any conventional medication for MS.
References
- "Brain"; Is Hypovitaminosis D One of the Environmental Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis?; Pierrot-Deseilligny, et al; July, 2010
- "Annals of Neurology"; Higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D is Associated with Lower Relapse Risk in Multiple Sclerosis; S. Simpson et al; August, 2010
- "Journal of Neurology"; Clinical Implications of a Possible Role of Vitamin D in Multiple Sclerosis; Pierrot-Deseillingny; September, 2009
