Equator, sunshine and rheumatic diseases

[Guest guest]

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> Jeanne,

> I have read that some autoimmune diseases were very rare near the

> equator. Although it is still unclear to scientists why, there are

> hardly any reported cases of multiple sclerosis near the equator. In

> contrast, Canada has the highest rate of MS in the world. Also,

> Spokane, Washington has the second highest MS rate in the world. Most

> scientists do not believe that environment is the sole cause of MS, but

> many think that the environment, coupled with another factor such as a

> virus, may cause a person to be more at risk to contract MS.

> Scientists have tried replicating different weather scenarios in the

> lab, but can't really prove if the weather is to blame, but they do

> agree that low pressure

> caused more arthritic patients to complain of pain.

> My personal belief is that the sunshine has something to do with it.

> Sun exposure is very healthy in moderation.

> Without it, we don't produce vitamin D, which helps us to utilize

> calcium. I've read that it increases the number of lymphocyes in

> circulation, thus strengthening the immune system. It also tends to

> normalize blood pressure and decrease cholesterol. It lowers lowers

> blood sugar in diabetics. Babies born with jaundice are put under sun

> lamps.

> Sunshine appears to influence many of the body's hormones such as

> cortisol & melatonin. We don't need a lot of sunshine for these

> benefits. Overexposure is very dangerous and can cause cancer. I try

> to get outside every day even if it's just for 15 minutes. Just 15

> minutes of sunlight can provide the daily requirement of Vitamin D.

> a

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