Red Light Boosts Cellular Energy Production
The most well studied mechanism of action surrounding red and near infrared light therapy is increased mitochondrial energy production in the cells. Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are the energy power plants of all the cells in our body. Red and near infrared light therapy helps the mitochondria create more of that energy. (Hence our company name, Mito Red Light for MITO-chondria)
The specific photons found in red and near infrared light interact with a photoreceptors within our cells called cytochrome c oxidase. This interaction stimulates the mitochondria in our cells to use oxygen more efficiently, which allows the mitochondria to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Adenosine triphosphate is a complex organic chemical that provides energy to drive many processes in living cells, e.g. muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and chemical synthesis. Found in all forms of life, ATP is often referred to as the “molecular unit of currency” of intracellular energy transfer. When our cells have more energy, they simply perform better and the body follows suit!
The Proven Benefits of Red and Near Infrared Light Therapy
We’ll dive deeper into each of these in future articles, but the proven benefits of red and near infrared light therapy include:
Promotes wound healing and tissue repair
Supports collagen production / anti-aging
Reduces swelling and inflammation
Improves joint health
Improves physical performance, muscle recovery and energy levels
Increases melatonin / improves sleep
