title: Vitamin D and autoimmune disease--implications for practice from the multiple sclerosis literature.
abstract: Recent studies and commentaries link vitamin D with several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Adequate vitamin D intake reduces inflammatory cytokines through control of gene expression, thus inadequate vitamin D intake is suggested as a mechanism that could contribute to inflammation and, consequently, development of MS. Poor vitamin D status has been associated with increased risk for development of MS, and patients with MS may suffer consequences of vitamin D deficiency, such as bone loss. Animal studies and very limited human data suggest possible benefit from vitamin D supplementation in patients with MS. Based on the current state of research, a key principle for practicing dietetics professionals is to include vitamin D status in nutritional assessment. For those at risk for poor vitamin D status, intake can be enhanced by food-based advice and, when indicated, vitamin D supplementation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Clinical Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas 75390-8877, USA. barbara.mark@utsouthwestern.edu
authors.forename: Barbara L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Mark
authors.forename: Jo Ann S
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Carson
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004032:Diet / Q000592:standards; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D009752:Nutritional Status; D012307:Risk Factors; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism; D014808:Vitamin D Deficiency / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy
chemical_list: D014807:Vitamin D