PMID:
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2019 Jun ;29(6):633-638. Epub 2019 Feb 28. PMID: 30956026
Abstract Title:
Exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation limits diet-induced weight gain, increases liver triglycerides and prevents the early signs of cardiovascular disease in mice.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Sunlight exposure is associated with a number of health benefits including protecting us from autoimmunity, cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. Animal studies have confirmed that ultraviolet (UV)-B radiation, independently of vitamin D, can limit diet-induced obesity, metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study is to investigate whether exposure to the UV radiation contained in sunlight impacts on these disease parameters.METHODS AND RESULTS: We have trialled an intervention with solar UV in obese and atherosclerosis-prone mice. We have discovered that solar-simulated UV can significantly limit diet-induced obesity and reduce atheroma development in mice fed a diet high in sugar and fat. The optimal regime for this benefit was exposure once a week to solar UV equivalent to approximately 30 min of summer sun. Exposure to this optimal dose of solar UV also led to a significant increase in liver triglycerides which may protect the liver from damage.CONCLUSION: Our results show that the UV contained in sunlight has the potential to prevent and treat chronic disease at sites distant from irradiated skin. A major health challenge going forward will be to harness the power of the sun safely, without risking an increase in skin cancers.
Health Time 