Can Vitamin D Help MS?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects communication between the brain and other parts of the body. While genetics play a role, researchers also point to environmental factors such as infectious agents, vitamin D deficiency, and hormonal imbalances as potential triggers.

Does vitamin D deficiency contribute to MS?

A number of observational studies suggest a link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of MS.

* A study of 1.9 million US women found that those who got the lowest levels of vitamin D were 34% more likely to have MS.

* Another study of 19,200 German adults found that those who had the lowest levels of vitamin D were 63% more likely to develop MS.

* A third study of 20,000 Australian women found that those who got the highest levels of vitamin D were 24% less likely to develop MS.

These studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be a contributing factor to MS, but they cannot prove that vitamin D deficiency actually causes MS.

Does vitamin D replacement therapy help with MS?

A number of clinical trials have investigated the use of vitamin D replacement therapy in people with MS.

* A study of 240 people with MS found that those who took 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 per day for 6 months had significant improvements in their walking ability and fatigue levels.

* Another study of 120 people with MS found that those who took 200,000 IU of vitamin D3 per week for 12 weeks had significant improvements in their disability scores.

* A third study of 200 people with MS found that those who took 100,000 IU of vitamin D3 per day for 1 year had significant reductions in their relapse rates.

These studies suggest that vitamin D replacement therapy may be helpful in reducing the symptoms of MS and preventing relapses.

Conclusion

The evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to MS and that vitamin D replacement therapy may be helpful in reducing the symptoms of MS and preventing relapses. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Talk to your doctor

If you have MS, talk to your doctor about whether vitamin D replacement therapy may be right for you.