Scientists from Maastricht University have found that exposure to natural light can help treat and prevent type 2 diabetes. Study presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Hamburg.
13 people with type 2 diabetes, with an average age of 70, participated in the study. They were kept in research facilities at all times during the experiment, making it possible to strictly monitor their light exposure, feeding and activity.
They were exposed to natural daylight through windows from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the evening, the lights were dim, and during the sleep period (between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.), participants were in darkness. The subjects spent 4.5 days in this way. Four weeks later, the conditions changed: Now the participants spent the day under artificial light. Conditions remained the same in the evening and night.
Blood glucose levels remained within the normal range (4.4-7.8 mmol/L) for longer in natural daylight than in artificial light (51% vs 59% of 4.5 days). Per1 and Cry1 genes, which help control circadian rhythms, were more active in natural light than in artificial light.
The results, especially better control of blood sugar levels in natural light, suggest that exposure to natural daylight is beneficial for metabolism and may therefore help treat and prevent type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions such as obesity.
Scientists have found this before yoga It may relieve symptoms of heart failure.
Source: Gazeta
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