When scientists first discovered chemical antibiotics in the mid-20th century, medical doctors hoped that these new drugs would hell certain diseases. Initially , the new drugs seemed to keep their promises.A time went by, its widespread use has led to the development of bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
To find new weapons against infection, some scientists are re-examining earlier methods of fighting the disease. The first is to enjoy the health benefits of the sun and fresh air.
Something to learn from the past
The great Britain had several early supporters of the healing value of the sun and fresh air. Some doctors prescribed sea air and sunlight for children with tuberculosis (TB). In 1840, it discovered that those who worked outdoors generally did not have tuberculosis, while those who spent most of their time indoors seemed more prone to contract TB.
Science has be com more advanced since the 19th century, but modern studies have come to similar conclusions. For instance, a 2011 study in China found that overcrowded student dormitories with poor ventilation rates are linked to more respiratory infections.
"It's very good," you might say. "But what is the science behind this? How do the sun and the air prevent infections?"
Natural disinfections
Studies conducted provide some answers. Military scientists tried to find out how long the air would remain dangerous if a biological weapon armed with harmful bacteria were to explode . To determine the viability of airborne pathogens, the scientists anchored the E. coli microorganisms in spider webs and exposed them to the outside air. The experiment was performed at night because sunlight was found to kill these bacteria. What was the result?
About two hours later, most of the bacteria were dead, but if the bacteria were kept in a closed box in the same place and at the same temperature and humidity, most of them were still alive after two hours. Why? Of course, being outside can kill bacteria. The so-called external factor has not been clearly identified. However, the researchers point to a compound that occurs naturally on the outside and "acts as a natural disinfectant against pathogens or bacteria lurking in the atmosphere."
Sunlight also has natural disinfectant properties. most germs that cause infections in the air cannot tolerate sunlight.
How can you benefit from it? You may want to go outside, where you can spend moderate time in the sun and get some fresh air. It will probably do you good