IN THE quest to banish the blues, bright light therapy (BLT) shines as a promising contender for depression.
But how exactly does this mood-boosting glow work its medicinal magic?
Science sleuths turned to the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data to shed some light on the important matter, focusing on sleep regularity as a potential key player.
The study, involving over 6,600 non-pregnant participants, aged 18 and older, equipped with snazzy wrist-worn devices, aimed to unravel the bright light-sleep-depression triangle.
The results: those basking in more bright light had more regular sleep patterns and fewer depression symptoms.
So, if you're feeling down, maybe it's time to step into the light - just don't forget to put on your sunglasses.
Interestingly, once sleep regularity entered the picture, the direct link between bright light and lower depression scores dimmed.
It seems our body's internal clock might be the real hero here, ensuring that regular sleep is a natural antidepressant.
As an added bonus, more time in the light was linked to higher vitamin D levels.
So, if you're looking to lighten your mood, remember: bright light, a regular sleep schedule, and a healthy dose of the sunshine vitamin can make all the difference.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 24 Jul 24
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