New Vitamin D and multiple sclerosis information booklet released!

Shaun Barton from the MS-UK Helpline shines a light on vitamin D and MS

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hormone that provides essential support for many of our bodily functions. It is important for a healthy immune system, brain development and function, and cardiovascular health.

Vitamin D helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the body. These are the building blocks for strong bones, teeth and muscles. It is often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ given our body creates it as a reaction to direct sunlight exposure.

The influence of vitamin D in the health of human immune systems has been proven over time, with scientific studies showing that avoiding deficiency helps to underpin good immune health and reduces susceptibility to autoimmune conditions, including multiple sclerosis (MS).

Vitamin D and MS

Such is the link between vitamin D deficiency and MS that some neurologists will request that their patients have their levels of vitamin D tested at the point of diagnosis. If these levels are found to be low, then supplementation is usually prescribed.

Our recently revised Choices Vitamin D booklet provides further information about the benefits of this nutrient, particularly for people with MS. Inside we look at various topics such as how we can get our daily dose of vitamin D, desired levels and recommended supplementation dosage, plus its link to the onset and management of MS.

As is standard with our Choices range of booklets, we provide links to the sources we have used for reference, including scientific studies, which will afford you the opportunity to conduct further reading and research.

You can view the booklet Choices Vitamin D now on our website. It is also available as a hard copy booklet which you can order free of charge, along with other booklets in our Choices range. Simply complete our online order form and we will send you your order direct to your door. We hope that you find it a valuable and useful resource!