Vitamin D, also called the ”sunshine vitamin”, can be produced in the body, unlike other vitamins that we obtain from food or supplements. Vitamin D is vital for both the immune system and bone health.
Research shows that the further away from the equator, the higher the risk of multiple sclerosis. Because sunlight is the most effective source of vitamin D in the body, it is believed that exposure to sunlight may offer some protection against multiple sclerosis.
There is increasing evidence suggesting that vitamin D is associated with both the risk and the prevention of multiple sclerosis. Yet, it is important to note that the effect of vitamin D supplementation on MS activity has not yet been adequately studied. Further research is needed to understand how vitamin D supplementation might affect MS.
What are the sources of vitamin D?
Remember, our body can create vitamin D in the skin as a result of sun exposure. A short exposure of several minutes per day to sunlight is required (time depends on skin color, seasons, hours of the day, etc.).
Vitamin D is also a fat-soluble vitamin and can be consumed by eating high-fat vitamin D foods such as egg yolks, oily fish (salmon, for example), and fortified foods such as milk and yogurt.
You can discuss this issue with your healthcare team to decide whether vitamin D levels should be checked and what you should do to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
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