According to research done at the New Jersey Medical School, vitamin D may play a role in fighting both multiple sclerosis (MS) and various types of cancers.
Cancer Prevention Vitamin D
Vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption in the body, may also help prevent the formation of breast cancer and other malignant cells as it also protects the body against certain autoimmune disorders – such as multiple sclerosis.
Notes researcher Sylvia Christakos, PhD, of the UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, “One device of vitamin D action may be to preserve balance in the T-cell reaction and thus avoid autoimmunity.”
How to Get Your Vitamin D
This important health booster is available through sun exposure (minimum of 10-15 minutes, mid-day, daily), supplements, and diet. Naturally-occurring food sources include eggs (yolks), liver, and fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines, fortified food sources include milk, some breakfast cereals, and other products such as fortified drinks, bread, and flour.
How much vitamin D is enough? Experts vary, but assume that 400 IU is the lower limit for adults, and 1,000 IU the upper limit.
For further information: “Vitamin D and Multiple Sclerosis,” by Sylvia Christakos, PhD, Anita Raghuwanshi, PhD, and Sneha S. Joshi, PhD, Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, July 24, 2008.
