The benefits of increased vitamin D levels were three-fold in a recent pilot study from Loyola University Chicago Niehoff School of Nursing. Raising vitamin D levels of women with type 2 diabetes and symptoms of depression levels to a sufficient range resulted in elevated mood, lowered blood pressure, and modest weight loss, according to a press release from Loyola. The researchers have received a  $1.49 million grant from the National Institute of Health for a larger follow-up study.

The research examined women that had type 2 diabetes, symptoms of depression, and insufficient vitamin D levels (18 ng/ml). After six months of taking 50,000 IU of vitamin D weekly, blood levels had risen to an average of 38 ng/ml and scores on a depression survey dropped from 26.8 (indicating moderate depression) to 12.2 (indicating no depression). Average blood pressure readings also fell from 140.4 mm Hg for the higher number to 132.5, and the women lost an average of 2.5 pounds.

The follow-up study is expected to involve more than four times as many participants and will examine the effects of weekly vitamin D supplementation versus placebo.

Click here to read the press release from Loyola University Health System.

SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can’t say in your tanning salon business.

© 2013 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.