Vitamin D Supplementation in Multiple Sclerosis

Scientific evidence suggests a link between vitamin D deficiency and multiple sclerosis (MS). In fact, vitamin D deficiency may be a risk factor for MS and may increase the risk of MS exacerbations. Given this, if you have this disease, it's worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether or not you need vitamin D supplementation—and how much to take.

Your healthcare provider may or may not recommend a prescription supplement, but be aware that even over-the-counter options may interact with medications (and other vitamins) and also need to be taken at certain times of the day to be most effective.

MS Risk and Vitamin D Deficiency

MS is much more prevalent in northern latitudes, where the weather is colder and the sunlight is less intense. Vitamin D is believed to play a role in this trend; in addition to dietary sources of the vitamin, the sun's ultraviolet rays help your body produce vitamin D.

It's thought that this contributes to the higher prevalence of MS in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the U.S., as seen below.

In addition, people who have MS tend to have lower levels of vitamin D than counterparts who do not have the condition. The reason for this association isn't clear, but researchers have been investigating.

While it is a good idea for everyone to maintain a balanced diet, vitamin D deficiency is a common problem that many people don't know they have.

MS Progression and Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D may also play a role in how the MS disease course progresses; some research suggests that relapses are associated with low levels of vitamin D.

However, there is mixed evidence regarding the correct dose to improve MS symptoms, exacerbations, or disease progression. One study noted that it may be harmful rather than helpful at high doses. More research is needed.

Target Level and Supplementation for MS Patients

Although there are currently no standard guideline stating exactly what a normal or target vitamin D level is for a person with MS, and no protocol regarding checking vitamin D levels, there are some basic ways you can ensure you're getting enough of this important vitamin.

Getting some sunlight on a regular basis will help. As little as 10 to 15 minutes of walking or sitting in moderate sunlight a few times per week can provide most people with enough vitamin D.

Many foods are natural sources of vitamin D (though few have significant amounts), and others, such as milk and dairy products, are fortified with vitamin D.

You can talk to your healthcare provider about whether you are getting enough vitamin D from your diet and from sunlight, or whether you also need to also use an over-the-counter or prescription supplement.

Dose

If your healthcare provider does recommend vitamin D supplementation, your dose may be based on your vitamin D level, where you live, and the time of year; you may need more vitamin D during months when there is less sunlight.

The Institute of Medicine recommends that a typical adult take 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily, or 800 IU if you're over 70. The maximum daily dose is 4,000 IU.

However, if your vitamin D level is very low to start, your healthcare provider may prescribe a higher dose at first and then lower it (e.g., 50,000 IU weekly for six to eight weeks, then 2,000 IU daily thereafter).

Effects of Excessive Vitamin D

Vitamin D is generally safe, but it can cause side effects if taken in excessively large doses. Vitamin D toxicity does not worsen MS itself, but some of these side effects may compound your already existing MS symptoms.

The main consequence of vitamin D toxicity include:

The treatment for vitamin D toxicity is usually discontinuation of vitamin D supplements. If your calcium level is high, you may need other medical interventions to bring down the calcium levels in your blood.

A Word From Verywell

The interaction between vitamin D and MS has gained a great deal of attention, but the ideal vitamin D level and recommended dose in MS is not totally clear. As with other vitamins and supplements, it's best to discuss supplements with your healthcare provider, even if you plan to take an over-the-counter form.