In a recent blog post, Vitamin D Council founder Dr. John Cannell discusses the scientific and anecdotal evidence suggesting that UV exposure from the sun and sunbeds is helpful for improving mood.

“I like to feel better. That’s why I seek UV exposure year-round. In the summer, sun exposure is the most natural and available option. In the winter, I sometimes go to suntan parlors, and I sometimes use in home devices, too,” Cannell wrote.

One 2002 study from Germany found that volunteers “felt significantly more balanced, less nervous, more strengthened, and more satisfied with their appearance after sunbed use,” despite the face that serotonin and melatonin levels were not impacted. Other studies have shown similar results, including one that found that patients suffering from fibromyalgia report a short-term decrease in pain and improved mood following sunbed use.

But, why is this the case? According to Cannell, one possible explanation is increased blood levels of endorphins following sunbed use. At least one study has shown sunbed use to increase endorphin levels.

Click here to read the Vitamin D Council blog post.

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