Sun Exposure, Vitamin D May Lower MS Risk

Study Suggests Vitamin D Levels May Have Role in Protecting Against Multiple Sclerosis

By Salynn Boyles
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD

Feb. 7, 2011 -- Higher vitamin D levels and exposure to sunlight appear to be independently protective against multiple sclerosis, a progressive autoimmune disease that affects around 400,000 Americans.

In a newly published study from Australia that included people with and without early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS), sun exposure and vitamin D levels each predicted disease risk.

It has long been recognized that MS is a disease of latitudes, with high rates reported in colder climates and lower rates seen in tropical ones.

Some previous studies have also found low vitamin D levels to be associated with higher risk for MS. Others have suggested that taking vitamin D supplements may protect against the disease.

(More here.)