Why is red light beneficial to our bodies?

Why is red light beneficial to our bodies?

Clinical and scientific research has shown the following:
1. Light Absorption and Energy Conversion: Red and near-infrared light can penetrate skin and tissues and be absorbed by photosensitive substances within cells, such as mitochondria. Cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria is the primary light absorber, converting light energy into chemical energy, increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) within the cell. ATP is the cellular energy currency, providing energy for various cellular activities, thereby promoting cell growth, repair, and functional recovery.
2. Blood Circulation Enhancement: Red light exposure can dilate blood vessels, increase blood flow, and improve local circulation. Improved blood circulation provides more oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues while removing metabolic waste and inflammatory mediators, accelerating tissue repair and regeneration.
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Red light has significant anti-inflammatory effects. It can inhibit the migration and proliferation of inflammatory cells and reduce the release of inflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukins (IL-1, IL-6). By reducing inflammation, red light therapy can help relieve pain, swelling, and tissue damage. 4. Promotes Cell Proliferation and Differentiation: Red light can stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of various cells, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and neurons. Fibroblasts are the primary cells of connective tissue, responsible for synthesizing collagen and elastic fibers, promoting wound healing and tissue repair. Endothelial cells are the components of the vascular lining, and their proliferation contributes to the formation of new blood vessels, improving blood supply to tissues. The proliferation and differentiation of neurons aids in the repair of damaged nerves and functional recovery.
5. Analgesic Effect: Red light therapy also has analgesic effects. It stimulates nerve endings to release analgesic substances such as endorphins, blocking the transmission of pain signals and raising the pain threshold, thereby effectively relieving pain.
6. Regulates Immune Function: Red light can regulate the immune system and enhance the body’s immunity. It promotes the activation and proliferation of immune cells, increases antibody production, and strengthens the body’s defenses against pathogens. Red light also has immunomodulatory effects in autoimmune diseases, helping to mitigate overreactions of the immune system.