Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a serious disease that attacks the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves of the central nervous system. A lack of certain nutrients may increase the risk of developing MS. Eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet is recommended for MS sufferers and the general population, but additionally taking a few supplements may reduce your chances of developing a chronic disorder such as MS, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vitamin D From Sun Exposure
A vitamin D deficiency, or hypovitaminosis D, is likely a risk factor for MS, according to a study published in "Brain: A Journal of Neurology" in 2010. The study analyzed the possibility that hypovitaminosis D could be a risk factor for MS, along with other environmental and genetic risk factors, all of which play a role in whether a person develops MS. It was shown that there is a correlation between MS and a lack of vitamin D from sun exposure due to urbanization and the latitude of the geographical location. Vitamin D also influences the production of T lymphocyte cells, which are well known to play a role in the pathogenesis of MS.
Vitamin D Supplements
Taking Vitamin D supplements may also decrease the risk of developing MS. A study condufcted at the Department of Nutrition at Harvard School of Public Health tested the effects of vitamin D supplements on women and incidence of MS. The study found that taking more than 400 IU of vitamin D daily may have a protective effect against developing MS. The journal "Neurology" published the study in January 2004.
Vitamin B12
A vitamin B12 deficiency may increase the risk of developing MS. The body needs vitamin B12 to produce myelin, which is a protective layer around nerve fibers that MS damages. Also, a deficiency in vitamin B12 produces similar symptoms to MS. Because of the dependency of the nervous system on vitamin B12 and the matching symptoms of a deficiency, it is possible that a link exists between MS and vitamin B12. However, there is no research that yet proves a relationship between B12 and MS, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vitamins for MS
Vitamins may also be helpful for MS sufferers, but you should always consult a physician before trying alternative therapies. According to the book "Multiple Sclerosis: A Self-help Guide to its Management" by Judy Graham, two B-50 complex pills, 100 mcg of vitamin B-12, up to 3 g of vitamin C and up to 800 IU of vitamin E may help MS sufferers. Mineral supplements may be beneficial too. These include 25 mg of zinc, 50 mcg of selenium, up to 1,500 mg of calcium and up to 750 mg of magnesium.
References
- "Inside MS"; So, What's New About Vitamin D; Allen C. Bowling, M.D., Ph.D., Tom Stewart, JD, PA-C; Oct./Nov. 2006
- National Multiple Scelerosis Society: Nutrition and Diet
- "Multiple Sclerosis: A Self-help Guide to its Management"; Judy Graham; 1989
- Multiple Scelerosis Society: Vitamins and Minerals
- "Brain: A Journal of Neurology"; Is Hypovitaminosis D One of the Environmental Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis; Charles Pierrot-Deseilligny, Jean-Claude Souberbielle; July 2010
- "Neurology"; Vitamin D Intake and Incidence of Multiple Sclerosis; K. L. Munger, et al., January 2004
Member Comments