Study: Sun Exposure May Reduce Blood Pressure, Prolong Life

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Love to bake in the sun? If so, you’re in luck — a new study suggests that exposure to sunlight may help cut the risk of heart attack and stroke and even prolong life.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found that exposing our skin to the sun’s rays causes the compound nitric oxide to be released in our bloodstream. Nitric oxide works to lower blood pressure, bringing with it a host of other health benefits. Until this study, vitamin D was thought to solely explain the sun’s benefits to human health.

Just something to keep in mind next time you’re lounging at the beach. You can check out the full story over at Science Daily.

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Photo credit: Haleakala by Flickr user daveynin.

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