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The mitochondria, often hailed as the powerhouse of the cell, play a pivotal role in sustaining life. These tiny organelles are responsible for generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells. Through a process called cellular respiration, mitochondria convert nutrients into ATP, providing the energy necessary for cellular functions. This energy production is vital for various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and metabolism regulation. Without functional mitochondria, cells would lack the energy required to carry out essential tasks, leading to cellular dysfunction and eventual organismal demise.
Furthermore, mitochondria are intricately linked to cellular signaling pathways and apoptosis, or programmed cell death. They regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which, in controlled amounts, serve as signaling molecules involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and defense against pathogens. However, excessive ROS production can lead to oxidative stress, causing damage to cellular components such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress have been implicated in various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
One area where red light therapy has shown promise is in the treatment of ocular disorders. Studies have demonstrated its ability to promote retinal cell survival, protect against light-induced damage, and improve visual function in conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and meibomian gland dysfucntion . Additionally, red light therapy has been investigated for its neuroprotective effects on the brain. By enhancing mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress, it may help mitigate neuronal damage and improve cognitive function in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
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In recent years, red light therapy has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in promoting ocular and neurological health. Red light therapy utilizes low-level laser or light-emitting diode (LED) devices to deliver red and near-infrared wavelengths of light to targeted tissues. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and are absorbed by mitochondria within cells, stimulating cellular energy production through a process known as photobiomodulation. By enhancing mitochondrial function, red light therapy has been shown to improve cellular metabolism, increase ATP production, and reduce oxidative stress.
In conclusion, the mitochondria serve as the powerhouses of the cell, generating energy essential for cellular function and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in various diseases, highlighting the importance of preserving mitochondrial health. Red light therapy emerges as a promising therapeutic modality, harnessing the power of light to enhance mitochondrial function and alleviate oxidative stress. Its potential benefits extend to ocular health, where it shows promise in treating retinal disorders, as well as neurological health, offering hope for the management of neurodegenerative diseases. As research in this field continues to evolve, red light therapy holds the potential to revolutionize healthcare by harnessing the natural power of light to heal and rejuvenate the body and mind.
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Device Options
There are A LOT of options for devices to start your treatments. You can find a quality device that will fit any budget. The smaller devices are effective but need to be moved to different areas to provide treatment of various parts of your body. When doing your research look for devices that provide the information on the "fluence" of the device; often given in the form of mW/cm2 with a treatment distance noted. Each device is designed a bit differently.
Many devices available offer a potent treatment. With devices like the HOOGA panel, pictured below, the most common recommendation for treating the face and eye area (with the eye lids closed) is ONE, 3 minute session, with the panel 6-8 inches from your face, completed with in the first few hours after you wake in the morning. Some studies show that 1 treatment a week is effective at creating shifts in health. Treatments of 10-15 minutes can be used for other parts of the body.
The red light devices are bright. I suggest that you never look directly at the lights, with your eyes open, for any length of time. Catching a glance of the lights with eyes open isn't going to damage anything but I'm not comfortable with looking with eyes open purposefully. If you're working with a practitioner who has specific recommendations for specific conditions, you may use the lights differently. The research is definitely evolving in how to safely and effectively use this type of therapy.
Generally red light therapy is believed to be very safe. Start with short treatments and pay attention to how your body responds. The red light therapy does work to enhance how the mitochondria of your cells function. This change in metabolic activity may take time for you to get used to.
Many devices available offer a potent treatment. With devices like the HOOGA panel, pictured below, the most common recommendation for treating the face and eye area (with the eye lids closed) is ONE, 3 minute session, with the panel 6-8 inches from your face, completed with in the first few hours after you wake in the morning. Some studies show that 1 treatment a week is effective at creating shifts in health. Treatments of 10-15 minutes can be used for other parts of the body.
The red light devices are bright. I suggest that you never look directly at the lights, with your eyes open, for any length of time. Catching a glance of the lights with eyes open isn't going to damage anything but I'm not comfortable with looking with eyes open purposefully. If you're working with a practitioner who has specific recommendations for specific conditions, you may use the lights differently. The research is definitely evolving in how to safely and effectively use this type of therapy.
Generally red light therapy is believed to be very safe. Start with short treatments and pay attention to how your body responds. The red light therapy does work to enhance how the mitochondria of your cells function. This change in metabolic activity may take time for you to get used to.
Eyepower red delivers low power 670nm near deep red light for a timed 3 minute period. This light is known to enhance the function of the mitochondria.
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Calculating the appropriate time of treatment is important. To calculate how long to treat you need to know the strength of your device and your desired dose. For example, with the above pictured HOOGA device which has a power of 109mW/cm2 at 6 inches, you would treat for 2.5 minutes to achieve a dose of 15 Joules.
Read more on making your calculations here. |
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MitoRedLight also provides a lot of options for devices.
It provides 4 wave lengths of light, each one having its own benefit. There is a capability to select different modes through a connected app. A few more bells and whistles than the HOOGA and also an investment of more money. The MitoPro 300 also offers 4 wavelengths of light and a more simple integrated timer. It has less customization than the ADAPT and does not connect to an app. 
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LumeBox is a smaller device that uses a chargeable battery. It comes in a cute case and is small enough to go where ever you go. Use discount code drsarahlaneod when ordering for a $260 discount!
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Block Blue Light has a lot of products to manage exposure to blue light as well as quality panels for Red Light Therapy as well.
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Some people notice some dryness of the skin when using red light therapy. Finding a supportive product to help nourish your skin as you're experiencing some changes in your skin will enhance your experience. This Maysama product is one option.
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A few videos for your learning...
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Dr. Huberman provides a lot of information in this video. It's a long one but worth it if you have the time. He goes into detail on the benefits of light on your health and information on various techniques including Red Light Therapy.
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This video provides some basic information on the activation of mitochondria in cells throughout the body. Also highlighted is a summary of some studies showing improvements in retinal health in eyes with macular degeneration or diabetic macular edema. These conditions are related to suboptimal metabolism within the retina and the exposure to the red light enhances this metabolism. Red light is also showing benefits in treating dry eye conditions by helping to improve the health of the eye lids and tear quality.
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This video provides a TON of detailed information about the impacts of light on how our body works. If you're looking to become an expert in this area, this is your video! Included are conversations of melatonin and tips to make sure you know how to encourage your body to optimize these pathways to enhance your health and sleep patterns.
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Dr. Hyman, one of the founders of the Institute of Functional Medicine, shares his routine for restoring and maintaining his personal health. Everyone has different levels of comfort and knowledge when choosing to utilize supplements and devices. It's important to know your personal needs and individual medical needs when making informed decisions about your health but there is surely more to know than what our traditional physicians are suggesting these days.
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This video explores one particular research study that demonstrated improved retinal health in people over the age of 40 years using red light therapy for 3 minutes 1x per week. The data from this study are promising as more and more people experience the benefits, it's nice to have the scientists find the effects in their studies.
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All information provided here is provided to help guide your exploration of options for your healthcare. All decisions made for your care are 100% your responsibility. It is your responsibility to decide what is ultimately the safest and most effective path forward for you.