As Australia and the southern hemisphere head into winter, a nationally broadcast report is warning pregnant woman that they need to get some sun and that vitamin D levels are at their lowest in the winter.

“If you’re newly pregnant you know you have to take Folate supplements, avoid alcohol and soft cheeses. But did you know that you need to be getting a minimum of sunlight exposure also?,” the Australian Broadcast Company reported. “Latest research shows a mother’s exposure to sunlight during early pregnancy could play an important role in the risk of the baby developing multiple sclerosis in later life.”

The story continues, “It is hard to imagine any of us in Australia not having enough exposure to sunlight! We know the risks exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet rays can create on pale coloured European skin. We have become expert in covering up, applying sunscreen and keeping out of the harsh sun but it seems this can also have a detrimental effect. Low maternal sunlight exposure — the main source of vitamin D — during the first four months of pregnancy increased the risk of multiple sclerosis in children born in Australia.”

To read the story click here.