New research shows that sun exposure plays a more significant role in satiety and hunger levels than gender when it comes to appetite regulation.

The study, conducted by the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Cardiovascular Science, involved a group of 43 participants who had their hunger levels and appetite hormones measured before and after spending time in the sun.

The Study Design

The study participants were placed in two groups – male and female – and each group was then further divided into two subgroups: one that sat in the sun for 30 minutes and one that sat in a room without windows.

The participants were not allowed to eat or drink anything during this time. The researchers collected blood samples and asked the participants to rate their hunger levels before and after sitting in the sun or the room without windows.

Results: Sun Exposure vs Sex

The results of the study showed that both male and female participants who sat in the sun experienced a greater reduction in hunger levels compared to those who sat in the windowless room.

In other words, the sun exposure suppressed appetite hormones more effectively than being in a room without natural light. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between men and women in terms of hunger suppression after sun exposure.

Why Sun Exposure Affects Hunger?

The researchers speculate that the sun’s effect on appetite hormones may be due to the fact that it helps the body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to play a role in the regulation of appetite hormones.

When the body has enough vitamin D, it produces more of a hormone called leptin, which signals the body to stop eating. The sun is the primary source of vitamin D, which is why people who live in areas with less sun exposure are more prone to vitamin D deficiency and associated health problems.

Hunger Management: Implication of Study

This research has implications for people trying to manage their weight. The findings suggest that regular sun exposure could help reduce hunger levels and lead to better weight management.

Additionally, the study reinforces the importance of vitamin D in appetite regulation and overall health.