from journal CELL
Why do we seek out the sun every summer?
The answer may be simply that it makes us feel
good. A study from Harvard Medical School and
Massachusetts General Hospital suggests
chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation
releases endorphins—the feel-good hormone.
The researchers say endorphins act much the
same way as heroin and related drugs, leading
to addiction-like behavior. The article in the
journal Cell suggests protecting ourselves and
our children may require more of a conscious
effort rather than just a passive preference.
Researchers, led by David Fisher, said it is
surprising we are genetically programmed to
being addicted to ultraviolet radiation, probably
the most common carcinogen in the world. It
may be our desire for vitamin D, the so-called
sunshine vitamin. But, he says, there are much
safer sources of vitamin D.