Exposure to natural light throughout the workday appears to aid in better glucose regulation for individuals managing Type 2 diabetes. This conclusion was reached by researchers at Maastricht University Medical Center. The findings of their study are featured in the journal Cell Metabolism (Cell Met).
Thirteen individuals diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes participated in the experiment. This randomized crossover trial involved participants spending consecutive days under conditions of natural daylight versus constant artificial illumination during working hours. Continuous monitoring revealed that glucose levels in the participants’ blood remained within the normal range for extended periods when exposed to daylight.
Furthermore, the subjects experienced shifts in their metabolism; specifically, their bodies exhibited a greater tendency to utilize fats as an energy source. Laboratory tests also detected cellular alterations, including changes in metabolites, lipids, and gene activity within the blood.
The scientists also determined that daylight exposure influences the functioning of circadian rhythms at a cellular level. Notably, muscle tissue samples from participants showed a shift in their activity phases, indicating that the muscles’ “internal clocks” were realigning with the natural light schedule.
These adjustments were paralleled by variations in evening melatonin levels—often referred to as the “sleep hormone”—suggesting a more precise synchronization of biological processes with the daily cycle.
“Current lifestyles often involve insufficient natural light exposure, as people spend up to 90% of their time indoors. This deficiency might negatively impact metabolic health and increase the risk of developing chronic conditions,” the researchers commented.
The scientists believe that making daylight accessible could serve as an uncomplicated and safe adjunct therapy for diabetes treatment. Nevertheless, more extensive studies are required to reach definitive conclusions.
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