Women who get the most sun exposure are 30 percent less likely to contract Type II diabetes, according to a study to be published in the medical journal Diabetes Research in October.

“Our findings indicated that women with active sun exposure habits were at a 30 percent lower risk of having DM, as compared to those with non-active habits,” said the study authors from Lund University Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden. “The study supports that sunlight is involved in the glucose metabolism.”

Sunlight and vitamin D have been linked to lower diabetes risk in other reports. This study adds to thousands of reports now suggesting that regular sun exposure is natural and intended and that sun avoidance and over-use of sunscreen may carry significant health risks.

Professional indoor tanning facilities promote the sensible message of moderation and sunburn prevention.

An abstract of the report is available now on-line. To read the study click here.