ultraviolet radiation has an arousing effect on adults that leads to the release of sexual hormones and enhances romantic passion, according to a new study that proves the best time to make hay really is when the sun is shining.
the research,
published in the journal cell reports
, found that ultraviolet radiation (type b) contained in sunlight plays a role in the regulation of the endocrine system — the part of the body that controls the sexual hormones of humans and other animals — and can increase attraction and willingness to engage in intercourse.
“it has been known for many years now that ultraviolet radiation from sunlight increases testosterone levels in males and we also know that sunlight plays a major role in both the behavioural and hormonal regulation of sexuality,”
said carmit levy
, one of the authors of the study at the department of human molecular genetics and biochemistry at the sackler faculty of medicine. “however, the mechanism responsible for this regulation remained unknown.”
in the first stage of the experiment, researchers exposed animal models to uvb light at wavelengths between 320 and 400 nanometres and witnessed a significant increase in female hormone levels, an enlargement of ovaries and a prolonged mating season. attraction levels between genders also increased dramatically, as did the desire have sexual intercourse.