According to the Multiple Sclerosis foundation, over 400,000 people in the United States have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Recent research from the Harvard School of Public Health and other health organizations indicates that vitamin D may help lower the risk of developing MS.  During the course of a 12-year study, researchers examined the vitamin D levels in U.S. military individuals and their likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis. In

The Research Results:

People having the highest 20% level of vitamin D in their blood (Caucasians) were 62% less likely to develop MS than those individuals with the lowest 20% of vitamin D in their blood.  This inverse relationship was particularly strong in people under the age of 20.  This is consistent with other studies that indicate an individual’s vitamin D levels early in life may be critical for protection from MS. 

Vitamin D is also helpful to the immune system, building strong bones, and other important functions in your body.  The researchers note that further studies are needed before nationwide recommendations are given for changing vitamin D intake.

What It Means:

Vitamin D is made from sun shining on your skin; however, in order to have maximum benefit, the sun needs to be almost directly overhead.  Since the sun is low on the horizon during the winter, people living in the northern half of the U.S. have very little vitamin D formed on their skin.  This is likely the reason why about half of all Caucasians and two-thirds of blacks have vitamin D levels lower than recommended for optimum health. 

Based on these findings, here are some tips to help boost your vitamin D:

• Aim for getting 20-30 minutes of sunshine on your skin daily, or as often as you can. Even though excess sun exposure can have health consequences, being exposed to some sunshine regularly is essential for good health.
• Take a vitamin D supplement if you live in Northern areas of the U.S. or are indoors most of the time.  Taking a multi-vitamin that includes vitamin D usually will suffice.  Keep in mind that if you take a calcium supplement each day, it likely also has vitamin D, so check the label.

Sources: Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, www.msfocus.org; Munger, K.L., et al. (2006). Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Risk of Multiple Sclerosis. JAMA, 296:2832-2838.