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Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis, and the MS Society of Canada now says that people affected by the disease should consume up to 4,000 IU per day to decrease the risk or to potentially modify the extent of the disease.

Vitamin D is acquired by exposure to sunlight or through ingestion of vitamin D3 supplements. Small amounts are found in foods like egg yolks, fortified dairy products and oily fish.

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Numerous studies have shown an association between low levels of vitamin D in the blood and the risk of getting MS as well as having relapses. One Canadian study has shown that children with low vitamin D levels were more susceptible to developing MS, as are those who’ve had a virus called Epstein-Barr or a genetic predisposition such as a family history of MS.

Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world with about 80,000 individuals diagnosed. MS is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that attacks myelin, the protective covering of the nerves that helps transmit nerve impulses. MS symptoms include extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes.