Is Red Light Therapy Beneficial for Weight Loss?

Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function. It has a range of applications in many fields, including medicine, dermatology, and sports therapy. You can even find red light therapy at your local Planet Fitness!

Red light therapy uses certain wavelengths of light typically at 600-700 nm (red) within the spectrum. When this type of light is applied to the skin, it is absorbed by mitochondria within our cells and can stimulate processes within the cells.

This stimulation is the root of its potential benefits, which we will discuss.

Common Uses of Red Light Therapy

Skin Health

Wrinkle Reduction

Acne Treatment

Wound Healing

Psoriasis and Eczema

Pain Management

Muscle and Joint Pain

Arthritis

Hair Growth

Sports Recovery

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Cognitive Function

Weight Loss*

Red Light Therapy Benefit for Weight Loss

The theory that red light therapy may affect fat cells (adipocytes) and metabolism, potentially leading to weight loss, is based on several biological mechanisms. 

Some proponents suggest that red light therapy may aid in weight loss by influencing metabolism. 

Here are some mechanisms that are currently suggested, although more research is needed to confirm these effects:

Increased Metabolism

Red Light Therapy stimulates the mitochondria within cells, enhancing cellular energy production. This increased metabolic activity could lead to a higher calorie expenditure (your daily energy expenditure) and fat burn, potentially contributing to weight loss. 

Lipolysis

Lipolysis is also known as fat cell shrinkage. Red Light Therapy may influence fat cells (adipocytes) and promote the release of stored fat, a process known as lipolysis. This phenomenon could lead to the shrinking of fat cells and reduced body fat. There is a need for more research for red light therapy and lipolysis.

Reduction in Inflammation

Red Light Therapy may enhance blood circulation and improve oxygen delivery to tissues. Improved circulation may support the body’s natural processes for breaking down fat and removing waste products.

Red light therapy may stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, signaling molecules regulating the body’s immune response. Increased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines can counteract the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to reduce inflammation.

On the flip side, red light therapy may encourage the release of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which play a role in promoting inflammation and pain.

Appetite Regulation

While not well-established, some studies have explored the potential for RLT to influence appetite-regulating hormones. If RLT can modulate these hormones, it might help with appetite control and potentially lead to reduced calorie intake.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

Red light therapy may improve insulin sensitivity by enhancing cellular function, reducing inflammation, increasing mitochondrial function, nitric oxide release, and reducing stress. For example, RLT has been associated with the release of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that plays a role in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). Increased NO production may enhance blood flow and improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, positively affecting insulin sensitivity.

RLT is believed to enhance blood circulation, supporting the overall health of blood vessels and tissues. Healthy blood vessels are essential for proper insulin action.

_______

It’s essential to emphasize that results from RLT can vary significantly among individuals, and the extent to which RLT can influence weight loss is unclear. Furthermore, RLT should not be considered a standalone solution for weight loss. Effective and sustainable weight management typically requires a combination of factors, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and lifestyle modifications.

Research on Red Light Therapy and Weight Loss

Although the evidence is limited and many studies are in early stages… here are a few key studies and findings.

• Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Body Contour and Fat Reduction (2011):
  • This study, published in the journal “Obesity Surgery,” investigated the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT), a type of RLT, on body contour and fat reduction.
  • Results suggested that LLLT had a positive impact on body circumference measurements, but the effects on actual fat loss were modest.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Fat Layer Reduction: A Comprehensive Review (2013):
  • A comprehensive review of the literature published in the “Lasers in Surgery and Medicine” journal examined various studies on LLLT and fat layer reduction.
  • The review concluded that while some studies reported reductions in fat thickness, more well-controlled clinical trials were needed to establish the efficacy of LLLT for this purpose.

• Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Body Adipose (2016):
  • Published in the “Obesity Research & Clinical Practice” journal, this study explored the impact of LLLT on body adipose (fat) tissue.
  • Findings suggested that LLLT could potentially have a beneficial effect on fat tissue, but the study emphasized the need for further research with larger sample sizes.

• Photobiomodulation Therapy for Non-Invasive Body Contouring and Fat Reduction (2018):
  • A review published in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” examined studies related to photobiomodulation therapy (which includes RLT) for non-invasive body contouring and fat reduction.
  • The review highlighted that while some studies reported favorable outcomes, more high-quality research was required to confirm these effects.
• Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) in Skin: Stimulating, Healing, Restoring (2019):
  • This review, published in the “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery,” explored the applications of LLLT in various skin-related conditions, including body contouring and weight management.
  • The review emphasized that while LLLT held promise for body contouring and fat reduction, further research was needed to clarify its effectiveness.

Consideration and Safety Using Red Light Therapy

Before considering RLT for weight management, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified professional.

They can help you determine whether Red Light Therapy is appropriate for your needs and goals and whether it should be integrated into a comprehensive weight management plan.