Study finds sunlight penetrates the human body, improving mitochondrial function and vision

 A new study published in Scientific Reports titled, Longer wavelengths in sunlight pass through the human body and have a systemic impact which improves vision, confirms what animal studies have long suggested: longer wavelengths of sunlight — particularly in the infrared range (830-860 nm) — can penetrate the human body and improve mitochondrial function systemically. 

Remarkably, even 15 minutes of back exposure (fully clothed) improved vision 24 hours later — without any light entering the eyes.

40 adults (ages 25-63) participated in the study. Researchers first measured sunlight transmission by placing a radiometer against the chest of shirtless participants standing in direct midday sunlight. In a controlled lab setting, subjects were then exposed to 15 minutes of 850 nm near-infrared (NIR) LED light directed at their backs. Visual performance was evaluated before and 24 hours after exposure using color contrast sensitivity tests. To isolate systemic effects from direct eye exposure, a subgroup wore foil-wrapped head coverings to fully block light from reaching the eyes...<<<Read More>>>...