Using morning light to help manage inflammatory bowel disease symptoms

Morning Light Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Pilot Clinical Trial

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10908407

This study is looking at how spending time in morning light might help people with inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis) feel better by improving their symptoms and overall well-being.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10908407 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of morning light treatment on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The study aims to explore how exposure to morning light can help stabilize the body's internal clock, potentially reducing gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, fatigue, and mood disturbances. By focusing on a non-invasive and accessible treatment option, the research seeks to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from IBD. Participants will be monitored for changes in their symptoms and overall disease activity throughout the trial.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Not a fit: Patients with other gastrointestinal disorders not classified as inflammatory bowel disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, low-cost treatment option for managing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using morning light treatment is novel for IBD, similar circadian rhythm interventions have shown promise in other chronic conditions.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.