新研究表明，阳光可能会削弱脑力，让人更难以做出正确判断。研究人员称，长时间暴露在阳光下的人应该戴遮盖头部。

New study shows that sunshine could diminish brain power, making it harder to make the right judgments¹.

 

Working in hot temperatures is already known to cause hyperthermia – a rise in body temperature – which can cause physical exhaustion². But now scientists say prolonged exposure of the head to the sun also affects the brain's ability to function properly.

 

A study by university teams in Denmark and Greece said workers could be damaging their brains by working in hot, sunny conditions.

 

Eight healthy, active males aged³ between 27 and 41 took part in the research.

 

The brain function test consisted of four different computer-based maths and logic⁴ tasks that relied on precise calculations. Four heat lamps were positioned to radiate either on the lower body or the back, side and top of their heads.

 

Professor Lars Nybo, of the department of nutrition, exercise and sports at the University of Copenhagen, said: "This study provides evidence that direct exposure to sunlight – especially to the head – impairs⁵ motor and cognitive⁶ performance."

 

The decline in motor and cognitive performance was observed at 38.5 degrees.

 

Researchers said those exposed to sunlight for long periods should cover their heads.

 

Professor Andtreas Flouis, of the FAME Laboratory in Greece, said: "It is of great importance that people working or undertaking⁷ daily activities outside should protect their head against sunlight."

 

Dips in mental performance caused by sunshine could also mean drivers were more likely to make mistakes on the road, he suggested.

 

The findings appear in the journal Scientific Reports.

 

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