Red and near-infrared light impacts overall wellness because it spurs the production of two universal drivers of health - cellular energy & collagen.[1-4].

INCREASED CELLULAR ENERGY & BLOOD OXYGENATION

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) is the “cellular energy” that powers our bodies, and is produced within the "power plants" of the cells known as mitochondria.

Scientists have determined these mitochondria “power plants” are in fact dual power plants, capable of using both chemical energy (glucose) and light energy to produce ATP. Specifically, mitochondria normally produce ATP via a 4-step chemical process called the “Electron Transport Chain,” however, scientists have discovered the 4^th step is able to take light energy (especially in the form of red and near-infrared light) and directly produce ATP. As one can imagine, this “light energized” ATP provides additional energy to the body to pursue health and wellness.

In addition, red and near-infrared wavelengths of light break the bond between nitric oxide and cytochrome c oxidase (COX), which increases blood oxygenation - another known health catalyst.

HEALTHIER COLLAGEN

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, comprising almost 30% of whole-body protein. Collagen is responsible for the elasticity of muscles, ligaments and skin, and the healthy lubrication of joints. Red and near-infrared light increases the production of collagen, which serves the body's overall health.

REFERENCES

1. M.R. Hamblin, “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” AIMS Biophys. 4(3), 2017.

2. P. H. Raven, et al. “How cells harvest energy.” Biology 10th ed. AP ed. pp. 122-146. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2014.

3. M. Emília de Abreu Chaves, et al. “Effects of low-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED.” An Bras Dermatol. 9(4): 2014.

4. U.H. Mitchell, G.L. Mack “Low-level laser treatment with near-infrared light increases venous nitric oxide levels acutely: a single-blind, randomized clinical trial of efficacy.” Am J Phys Med Rehabilitation, 92(2), 2013.