Sunlight gives energy to infection-fighting T Cells

Sunlight gives energy to infection-fighting T Cells


We all know the refreshing feeling of letting the warm sun hit our cheeks. Besides boosting our mood, experts say 10 minutes of sunlight each day can provide an array of health benefits. Exposure to the sun can boost the body’s ability to make vitamin D, lower blood pressure, improve bone health and brain function, lessen Alzheimer’s symptoms, improve skin quality and reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.

And, thanks to a new study published in Scientific Reports, the list of benefits just got a little bit longer. Researchers at Georgetown University’s department of pharmacology and physiology found that soaking up the sun can also boost your immune system by energizing infection-fighting T cells. These instrumental cells, produced by the thymus gland, actively participate in our body’s immune response.

Results showed that low levels of blue light found in the sun’s rays can cause T cells to move more quickly, which can help them fight infections faster. But the same effect can also be mimicked using artificial blue light, which is safer than the UV light from the sun known to cause skin cancer.

The research team said this finding could eventually lead to blue light treatments in clinical settings to boost patients’ immunity. But further research needs to be done to see whether the light treatment produces any dangerous side effects.

It is important to note that although sunlight has many health benefits, it can be dangerous in excess. Remember to wear sunscreen or protective clothing when you are planning to be in the sun for extended periods of time. There is no need to risk getting skin cancer while enjoying one of nature’s great gifts.

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