Dr Mercola: Not Enough Sun Causes MS

August 11, 2003

Comments?

Misty L. Trepke

Not Enough Sun Causes MS

It is widely known that the risk of MS increases the farther away

one goes from the equator. Scientists believe the mechanism is

secondary to decreased ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation

increases vitamin D levels and may have a protective role in T

helper cell type 1 mediated autoimmune disease.

This study shows that appropriate sun exposure during childhood

seems to provide a protective benefit against MS later in life.

To me the take-home message is loud and clear. Sun exposure is not

the evil it is made out to be. It is clearly important to have

regular sun exposure for optimum health and to avoid these types of

autoimmune diseases. So parents, let your kids out in the sun, just

monitor them carefully to make sure they don't get burnt.

Last week I posted the article on how sunscreen can actually cause

cancer. Aside from the cancer issue, sunscreen will actually block

the beneficial UV rays that produce vitamin D and protect against

autoimmune disease.

British Medical Journal August 9, 2003;327:316

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