People with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) sometimes experience more flare ups during winter. The colder weather has a strong correlation not only with MS symptoms but also the prevalence and development of the condition. Rates for people with MS increase as people get further away from the equator. Through understanding the link between colder weather and MS, people with the condition can better stay healthy during winter.

Multiple Sclerosis is rare in tropical countries and high in countries far from the equator, where there is less sunshine, in both hemispheres. Canada and Northern Scotland has the highest rates of the condition worldwide. People living in the northern parts of the United States are five times more likely to have MS than people in the south. Although there are a few exceptions, MS rates almost always are found to be higher in areas with a colder climate.

This discovery led to what is known as the latitude hypothesis, namely that where people live and how much sunlight they get is a significant risk factor for the condition. To stay healthy, people should make sure they spend time outdoors to soak in whatever sun they can and also watch their vitamin D intake. The body uses sunlight to make vitamin D, which is a nutrient not found in many foods. People can get vitamin D from oily fish, some mushrooms, egg yolks, and milk products. However, sunlight provides significantly more. People with MS may require vitamin D supplements though, especially during winter when sunlight is low.

People with MS can take vitamin D supplements in addition to eating vitamin D foods to help maintain their health. Adults should aim for 600 IU of vitamin D per day, or more if a doctor recommends a higher dosage. However, people should not consume more than 4,000 IU each day. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for maintaining health during winter, a time when colds and flus are prevalent. People with MS are at a higher risk of catching a cold or other bug if they are not sleeping well.

Many people with MS can experience difficulty sleeping at some point. Some ways to improve sleep include:

• Abstaining from caffeinated food and beverages
• Performing stretching exercises before bedtime
• Working out consistently
• Refraining from eating protein before bedtime
• Consuming snacks with carbohydrates before bedtime

Exercising regularly is always a good way to maintain health, but working out during winter may require some adjustments. When exercising at home or at the gym, people with MS should stay away from places where hot air is blowing, such as in front of a heating vent. Exercising outdoors can be comfortable for people who do not tolerate heat well. Some good winter activities include curling, skiing, and ski biking. These activities let people exercise at their own speed.

Following some healthy guidelines can help people avoid worsening MS symptoms during winter.