Archive · 9 Jan 2026
Daylight Improves Metabolic Health in Diabetics
A recent study found that natural daylight can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels better.
Researchers from the University of Geneva and Maastricht University studied 13 older adults with diabetes.
They found that those exposed to natural light had better blood sugar control, higher levels of the sleep hormone melatonin, and improved fat metabolism.
The study suggests that natural light helps the body's internal clock work better, which in turn helps regulate blood sugar levels.
This could be important for many people, as disruptions in the body's natural rhythms are linked to metabolic disorders.
Natural daylight exposure improves metabolic health and glycaemic control in type 2 diabetics.
Participants had better blood glucose levels, higher melatonin levels, and improved fat metabolism under natural light.
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Geneva and Maastricht University.
13 volunteers aged 65 and over with type 2 diabetes participated in the study.
Natural light influences the internal clock and metabolism, leading to better blood sugar regulation.
- Who
- 13 volunteers aged 65 and over with type 2 diabetes
- What
- A study on the effects of natural daylight on metabolic health in diabetics
- When
- The study was published in the journal Cell Metabolism
- Where
- Conducted by researchers from the University of Geneva in Switzerland and Maastricht University in the Netherlands
- Why
- To understand the impact of natural light on metabolic health and glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes
- Study Participants
- 13 volunteers aged 65 and over with type 2 diabetes
- Study Duration
- 4.5 days in each light environment with a break of at least four weeks
- Key Findings
- Improved blood glucose levels, higher melatonin levels, and better fat oxidative metabolism
- Journal
- Cell Metabolism
- Researchers
- University of Geneva and Maastricht University
- Impact of Natural Light
- Influences internal clock and metabolism, improving blood sugar regulation
