Which vitamin deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of MS?

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) based on several epidemiological studies and research findings. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and maintaining overall neurological health. It is believed that adequate levels of vitamin D may help protect against autoimmune diseases, including MS.

Research shows that individuals living in regions with lower sunlight exposure, which is essential for the body's synthesis of vitamin D, have a higher prevalence of MS. Furthermore, vitamin D receptors are present in the central nervous system, and its active form is involved in processes that potentially mitigate inflammation and neurodegeneration typical of MS.

Additionally, studies have suggested that higher levels of vitamin D correlate with a reduced risk of developing MS and may influence the course of the disease. This makes vitamin D not just a factor in the etiology of the condition but also a focus for therapeutic strategies aimed at modifying disease progression.