Using Light (Sunlight, Blue Light & Red Light) to Optimize Health | Huberman Lab Podcast #68

UVB Effects

Exposure to UVB light significantly impacts hormonal levels, enhancing mood and energy. Andrew Huberman explains that UVB exposure increases sex steroid hormones like testosterone and estrogen in both men and women, contributing to improved psychological states 1. This hormonal boost is achieved through regular, moderate sun exposure, which also enhances female attractiveness and mating receptiveness 2.

UVB exposure increased these so-called sex steroid levels in mice and humans.

--- Andrew Huberman

Such findings underscore the importance of sunlight in regulating hormonal balance and psychological well-being.

   

Seasonal Changes

Seasonal changes in daylight influence mating behaviors and hormonal fluctuations. Huberman notes that longer days in spring and summer correlate with increased mating activities due to higher testosterone and estrogen levels 3. This pattern is linked to reduced melatonin, which otherwise suppresses reproductive hormones 4.

Sunlight and day length can impact the melatonin pathway and thereby take the foot off the brake, so to speak, on testosterone, estrogen, and the desire to mate.

--- Andrew Huberman

These insights highlight the intricate relationship between light exposure and reproductive behaviors.