Sunlight Offers Ray of Hope in Preventing MS

Vitamin D deficiency triggers disease
By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 5, 2009 5:42 AM CST
Sunlight Offers Ray of Hope in Preventing MS
Monica Spann, 37, an MS sufferer, looks out her window in Capitol Heights, Md.   (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Deadly multiple sclerosis, which slowly destroys the central nervous system, may be  prevented with healthy exposure to the sun or Vitamin D supplements, according to a new study. Fresh research at Oxford University shows a vitamin D deficiency triggers a gene variant that increases the risk of developing MS by 300%, reports the Times of London.

“Serious questions now arise over the wisdom of current advice to limit sun exposure and avoid sunbathing," said the clinical neurologist who led the study. "We also need to give better advice and help to the public on vitamin D supplements, particularly pregnant and nursing mothers.”
(More multiple sclerosis stories.)

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