Vitamin D, the principal regulator of calcium in the body, may prevent the production of malignant breast and prostate cancer cells and protect against specific autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS), according to study published in the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry.
The research shows that the incidence of MS decreases as the amount of vitamin D available to the body increases, either through sunlight exposure or diet. The article notes that MS is, “for the most part, unknown in equatorial regions” and the prevalence of the disease is lower in areas where fish consumption is high.
“Since vitamin D is produced in the skin through solar or UV irradiation and high serum levels have been shown to correlate with a reduced risk of MS, this suggests that vitamin D may regulate the immune response and may promote a host’s reaction to a pathogen,” researchers said.
Christakos’ report focused on the immunosuppressive actions of the active form of vitamin D, which may inhibit the induction of MS, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sufficient vitamin D level.
Source: Newswise
