Effects of Vitamin D on Immunity and MS
Effects of vitamin D on skeletal and non-skeletal functions, including immune functions, has developed considerably over the past 3 decades. Higher levels of vitamin D are associated with reduced risk for developing multiple sclerosis (MS), and with reduced clinical activity in established MS, including decreased risk of relapse and reduction in disease activity on brain MRI .Vitamin D supplementation may diminish the risk of MS in the general population, as well as in children of mothers supplemented before and during pregnancy . In the information that follows, we will summarize the available data on vitamin D, with a focus on vitamin D’s effects on the risk of onset of MS and on the disease course of MS.
What is Vitamin D ?
The Importance of vitamin D
Since multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered an autoimmune disease, it is of interest to briefly review the potential effects of vitamin D related to immune function. The active form of vitamin D plays an essential role in lymphocyte activation and proliferation, T-helper cell differentiation, tissue-specific lymphocyte homing, the production of specific antibody isotypes, and regulation of the immune response. Targeted immune cell types include macrophages, dendritic cells, and T and B cells. Mora and colleagues summarized the roles and effects of vitamin D on these immune cell types.
Vitamin D levels and MS susceptibility.
Dietary intake of Vitamin D and MS risk (case study)
Vitamin D supportive food options
Summary