(1) It can stimulate mitochondria to energise cells.
Research is suggesting that light therapy can stimulate the mitochondria to produce more energy.
Why is this important?
Our bodies are made of cells and the mitochondria is the cell's "battery", where energy is created to carry out important activities such as repairing the body and helping it function.This energy is known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
When we're stressed, unwell, or simply ageing, these mitochondria don't work as well. This is called mitochondrial dysfunction or insufficiency, and has been associated with many chronic conditions, including brain conditions. For example developing Alzheimer's disease, Alzheimer's, metabolic conditions, cardiovascular diseases and chronic pain .
How can light therapy help? By stimulating the mitochondria to produce more energy, our brain cells have more capacity to grow, repair and regulate healthy cellular activities. This is particularly helpful in supporting brain health, because the brain is the most energy-demanding organ in the body (it constitutes only 2% of body weight, yet consuming 20% of our energy supplies. The sheer quantity of mitochondria in our brain cells makes it a particularly useful organ to target with light therapy.
(2) It can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Neuroinflammation (inflammation of the brain) has been linked with a variety of neurological disorders, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, mental health issues, brain fog and memory problems.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between ROS, and our body's ability to neutralise them with antioxidants. Oxidative stress can lead to many chronic and neurodegenerative conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or Parkinson's.
How can light therapy help? Research suggests that light therapy can assist with both of the above, due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidating capabilities, allowing for a healthy brain. It appears that light therapy triggers both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidating cascades, which can accelerate healing and repair in both acute and chronic conditions.