The Case for Sunlight in COVID 19 Patients: Oxidative Stress

The Case for Sunlight in COVID 19 Patients: Oxidative Stress

In this 147th update video, Roger Seheult, MD of MedCram presents the case for sunlight as a treatment for COVID-19. Historically, respiratory viral infections peak when days are shortest and COVID-19 is following that same pattern with higher infection rate surges and lower vitamin D levels associated with those seasonal changes. The doctor references these articles on Autumn COVID-19 surge dates in Europe and Influenza Deaths Per Week in the US.

He then provides an overview of the solar spectrum and the importance of Near-Infrared (N-IR) light as it helps the body generate and regulate melatonin via the pineal gland and energy via the mitochondria, and the by-products of oxidative stress and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). If left unchecked, oxidative stress can lead to less optimal health and a variety of health issues including obesity, inflammation, diabetes, and thrombosis. He makes note of how the COVID-19 virus can knock out the ACE-2 receptors which in turn, increase white blood cell production and oxidative stress.  The doctor stresses the importance of getting adequate N-IR exposure during the daytime and limiting light exposure at night to ensure mitochondria are bathed in melatonin and the body’s natural cooling process can work to reduce ROS. See this Medcram video on COVID-19 and Oxidative Stress and this article on Oxidative Stress and Oxidant Damage in Adults Hospitalized with COVID-19.

In closing, the doctor recommends the following items as next steps: More randomized controlled trials (RCT) to determine whether sunlight exposure can improve Covid 19 outcomes, spending more time outside to get N-IR (direct sun exposure not needed), consider having hospital patients spend time outside, and realizing that oral melatonin and vitamin D supplements are not substitutes for spending time outside and getting N-IR exposure.

For more information on the material covered in this video, see the following additional links and references:

Stay Tuned for More COVID-19 Updates 

Our COVID-19 videos are always available for free (and ad-free) at MedCram.com. In addition, check out our full library of courses and lectures on subjects ranging from Antibiotics Explained Clearly to Pulmonary Hypertension Explained Clearly course and many more!

Meanwhile, you can find all of our COVID-19 videos compiled here.

Leave a Comment