Vitamin D Linked to Lower MS Risk, Regarding Women, Spring 2005

Regarding Women

Vitamin D Linked to Lower MS Risk

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic nervous-system disease that affects almost twice as many women as men. New research suggests that there may be a simple weapon to help protect women: vitamin D.

In one study, those who took in the most vitamin D cut their risk of developing MS nearly in half. But it wasn’t food sources, such as milk, that made the difference. Instead, the women with the lowest risk were those who took daily multivitamin supplements that included at least 400 international units (IUs) of vitamin D.

The best source of vitamin D actually isn’t food—it’s the sun. And as more women shun the sun to protect themselves from skin cancer, it may be a good idea to add a vitamin D supplement to that healthy diet. But check with your doctor first.

Neurology, Vol. 62, No. 1

The editorial content for this article was taken from the print version of Regarding Women. Click here to sign up for future editions of Regarding Women.