Research supporting the health benefits of vitamin D is often criticized for not using the randomized control trial (RCT) format — the “golden standard of research.” But a new genetic study backing the extensively observed link between low Vitamin D and multiple sclerosis is said to actually be stronger proof than an RCT.

The first mendelian randomization study on vitamin D and MS found that those with vitamin D levels 6 ng/nl lower than average are twice as likely to have MS. The method involves looking for genetic variants that result in low vitamin D levels in populations with and without the condition.

“Mendelian randomization studies are stronger than randomized controlled trials, because, while randomized, Mendelian randomization studies track the effects of a lifetime of vitamin D deficiency,” Dr. John Cannell of the Vitamin D Council wrote about the study. “In order to conduct a randomized controlled trial to determine whether vitamin D prevents MS, researchers would have to administer physiological doses of vitamin D to the participants throughout their entire lifespan. Obviously, such a study can and will never be done.”

As always, Cannell recommends maintaining “natural” vitamin D levels — around 50 ng/nl — by sunbathing or taking 5000 IU daily for optimal health.

Click here to read the Cannell’s analysis of the study.

Click here to read more coverage from Yahoo News.

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