Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, slowing or blocking nerve signals that control our muscle coordination, strength, vision, and sensation. MS is unpredictable, and symptoms vary in severity, may come and go, or become progressively worse. Research shows that sunlight can play an important role in our risk of contracting MS, and that adequate sunlight exposure may decrease that risk.

It has been known that MS is rare in the tropic and subtropic regions of the world, and that the rates of MS increase the further you live from the equator. While MS tends to run in families, this genetic factor does not explain the significant geographical variation. Another interesting note is that children who live in sunny climates during their childhood years have a lower risk of MS, even if they move to a colder climate as adults.

Exposure to sunlight increases the amount of Vitamin D our bodies produce. Vitamin D is proving to be a vitally important nutrient, not only helping to build healthy bones but in maintaining our general good health and a strong immune system. Although some foods contain Vitamin D, including cooked salmon, mackerel, and tuna, and foods such as milk and ready-to-eat cereals are fortified with this essential nutrient, it can be difficult to get enough Vitamin D in our diet.

This lack of Vitamin D has been suggested as one of the environmental causes of multiple sclerosis, along with cigarette smoking and infection with Epstein-Barr virus. A lowered immune system response is a factor in the onset of MS, and exposure to bacteria or viruses may trigger MS in a person with a genetic predisposition toward the disease.

MS is not easily put into remission, and prevention is the best course of action. Sunlight has gained a reputation as something evil and best avoided, but exposure to sunlight is necessary for our bodies to maintain an adequate Vitamin D level. Those who live in colder climates may benefit from exposure to a safe tanning bed (which eliminates potentially harmful X-rays and electromagnetic fields), or take supplements in the form of cod-liver oil or tablets. Supplements are not recommended for children, who should get their Vitamin D from the sun.

If you choose to add Vitamin D supplements to your diet, it's important to have your doctor check your levels regularly to be sure you don't overdose yourself. Since Vitamin D is stored in the fat cells, it may build up to toxic levels with symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, constipation, weakness or weight loss.

Spend as much time as you can outdoors, without getting burned, to allow your body to absorb sunlight and create natural Vitamin D to strengthen your immune system. One of the most important steps you can take to reduce your risk of MS is absolutely free! Why not take advantage of it?

This article is for information only and not meant to replace your physician's advice and instructions.