Chasing the Sun audiobook cover - The New Science of Sunlight and How it Shapes Our Bodies and Minds

Chasing the Sun

The New Science of Sunlight and How it Shapes Our Bodies and Minds

Linda Geddes

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Categories:
ScienceHealth & Nutrition

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Chasing the Sun
Circadian Rhythms & The Inner Clock+
Heliotherapy & Vitamin D+
Artificial Light & Disruption+
Health Consequences of Disruption+
Chronotherapy for Mental Health+
Aligning Society with Biology+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 7
What is the primary function of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the human body?
  • A. To produce Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet light.
  • B. To act as the body's master clock and coordinate circadian rhythms.
  • C. To regulate the body's core temperature exclusively during deep sleep.
  • D. To filter out harmful blue-white light from artificial screens.
Question 2 of 7
Why did rickets become a widespread health concern in England during the late 1800s?
  • A. The introduction of artificial blue-white lighting in homes severely disrupted sleep cycles.
  • B. The widespread use of early antibiotics caused severe side effects in factory workers.
  • C. A significant portion of the labor force moved indoors to work in factories, reducing their sun exposure.
  • D. The implementation of daylight saving time caused chronic 'social jet lag' among the working class.
Question 3 of 7
What negative effect does the blue-white light emitted from computer and smartphone screens have on the human body?
  • A. It delays the release of melatonin, making it difficult for the body to prepare for sleep.
  • B. It triggers the overproduction of serotonin, leading to nighttime restlessness and anxiety.
  • C. It accelerates the body's circadian rhythms, causing premature waking before sunrise.
  • D. It permanently damages the cells in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, leading to chronic insomnia.
Question 4 of 7
Based on the experience of US Navy submarine captain Seth Burton, what is a potential severe consequence of chronic circadian disruption?
  • A. A permanent inability to naturally produce Vitamin D.
  • B. An increased risk of developing cancer.
  • C. The development of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) regardless of the season.
  • D. A heightened sensitivity to artificial light leading to chronic migraines.
Question 5 of 7
Which of the following is described as a scientifically supported Swedish remedy for combating seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
  • A. Using large mirrors installed in mountains to reflect sunlight into towns.
  • B. Undergoing a triple chronotherapy regimen involving lithium and sleep deprivation.
  • C. Spending time in a sauna followed by a dip in freezing water.
  • D. Switching entirely to candlelight in the home for a month during the winter.
Question 6 of 7
How does Dr. Francesco Benedetti's 'triple chronotherapy' attempt to treat severe depression and bipolar disorder?
  • A. By prescribing heavy doses of traditional antidepressants alongside daily sunbathing.
  • B. By using a combination of light therapy, lithium, and occasional sleep deprivation to reset circadian rhythms.
  • C. By strictly enforcing an 18-hour daily schedule to artificially lengthen the patient's sleep cycle.
  • D. By isolating patients in entirely dark rooms to stimulate the natural overproduction of melatonin.
Question 7 of 7
What was the result of high schools in Edina, Minnesota, shifting their start times from 7:20 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.?
  • A. Students experienced higher rates of seasonal affective disorder due to leaving school later in the day.
  • B. Teachers reported that students were more groggy because their circadian rhythms were disrupted by the change.
  • C. The schools saw immediate improvements in student attendance, grades, and engagement.
  • D. The town council successfully petitioned to exempt the school district from daylight saving time.

Chasing the Sun — Full Chapter Overview

Chasing the Sun Summary & Overview

Chasing the Sun (2019) delivers a fascinating account of the sun’s influence on our day-to-day lives. Throughout history, humans have worshipped the sun and touted its restorative, healing properties. As author Linda Geddes explains, science clearly shows that the sun is one of the most important elements of our health and well-being.

Who Should Listen to Chasing the Sun?

  • Science geeks
  • Winter blues sufferers
  • Healthy lifestyle seekers

About the Author: Linda Geddes

Linda Geddes is a journalist who specializes in the sciences of technology, biology, and medicine. She’s worked as both a writer and editor for New Scientist, and has been the recipient of the Best Investigative Journalism award from the Association of British Science Writers.

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