Animal studies have demonstrated that vitamin D can prevent an experimental form of multiple sclerosis. In humans, striking geographical differences in the prevalence of multiple sclerosis suggest t
hat sun exposure (which promotes the synthesis of vitamin D) may protect against the development of the disease. In addition, higher blood levels of vitamin D are associated with a lower risk of developing MS. However, no clinical trials have been done to determine whether increasing vitamin D intake or sunlight exposure would prevent MS.
The omega-6 fatty acids, found in such oils as evening primrose oil (EPO) and sunflower seed oil, also may be beneficial. When people with MS were given 4 grams of EPO for three weeks, their hand grip improved. In a review of three double-blind trials, two of the trials reported that linoleic acid reduced the severity and length of relapses. When the data were re-examined, it was found that taking linoleic acid decreased disability due to MS in all three trials. According to these researchers, taking linoleic acid while following a diet low in animal fat and high in polyunsaturated fat may be even more beneficial. Amounts used in these trials were approximately 17 to 23 grams of linoleic acid per day, provided by 26 to 35 grams of sunflower seed oil.
Deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1) may contribute to nerve damage. Many years ago, researchers found that injecting thiamine into the spinal cord or using intravenous thiamine combined with niacin in people with MS led to a reduction in symptoms. Using injectable vitamins requires medical supervision. No research has yet studied the effects of oral supplementation with B vitamins in people with MS.
Inosine is a precursor to uric acid, a compound that occurs naturally in the body. Uric acid is believed to block the effect of a toxic free-radical compound (peroxynitrite) that may play a role in the development of multiple sclerosis. In an attempt to raise uric acid levels, ten patients with MS were treated with inosine in amounts up to 3 grams per day for 46 weeks. Three of the ten treated patients showed some evidence of improved function and the others remained stable. Controlled studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.
