Vitamin D may protect against MS

February 5, 2009 British and Canadian researchers are reporting that the vitamin helps to control a gene known to increase the risk of MS.

The study in the journal PLoS genetics suggests giving vitamin D supplements to pregnant women and young children could reduce the risk of getting the disease.

Researchers have become increasingly interested in the so-called "sunshine" vitamin.

Other studies show it may also offer protection against other autoimmune diseases and possibly reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.