Red Light Therapy and Thyroid Health

Overview

• Studies indicate 30-50% of people can discontinue thyroid hormone medication after red light therapy.
• Benefits include increased hormone production, reduced thyroid antibodies, and improved hair, skin, mood, and energy.

What is Red Light Therapy?

• Also known as photobiomodulation, cold laser, or low-level laser.
• Devices provide wavelengths between 600 to 1000 nanometers.
• Energizes mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells.
  • Increases ATP (energy), improves circulation, and boosts antioxidant production.

Mechanism of Action

• Stimulates mitochondria, particularly between complexes 3 and 4 in the electron transport chain, increasing energy production.
• Releases nitric oxide for better circulation.
• Produces reactive oxygen species, prompting an adaptive antioxidant response.

Clinical Evidence

Study Summaries

1. 2022 Clinical Trial

   • Participants used iron, vitamin D, selenium, and red light therapy.
   • Results: Increased T3, significant decrease in TPO antibodies, 29% no longer needed medication.

2. 2023 Clinical Trial

   • 38 women with Hashimoto's; treated with nutrients and red light therapy.
   • Results: Decreased TSH, increased free T4 and T3, reduced TPO antibodies, weight loss.

3. Randomized Control Trial

   • Compared red light to placebo.
   • Results: Significant reduction in TPO antibodies, 48% no longer needed medication.

Long-term Considerations

• Benefits are transient; effects last up to 11 months.
• Recommended to repeat therapy annually.

Additional Benefits

• Fatigue: Whole body application improves fatigue in fibromyalgia.
• Skin: Enhances elasticity and reduces wrinkles.
• Hair: Facilitates hair growth.
• Mood: Improves mood when applied transcranially.

Protocol Recommendations

• Devices:

  • Platinum LED Biomac Series ($700): 480-1000 nm.
  • Bonn Charge Mini Red Light ($299): 660-850 nm.

• Usage:

  • Frequency: 2-3 times per week for 3 months.
  • Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
  • Distance: 8-14 inches from the device.

Safety & Considerations

• Rare side effects include skin irritation.
• Caution advised during pregnancy.
• Monitor thyroid levels to adjust medication if needed.

Laser vs. LED

• LEDs are safer, cheaper, and suitable for home use.
• Require longer treatment time compared to lasers.
• LEDs are as effective in stimulating cytochrome C as lasers.

Consumer Advice

• Be wary of overpriced devices.
• Avoid unnecessary expensive laser treatments.

Conclusion

• Red light therapy improves mitochondrial and thyroid function, enhancing overall health.
• Safe and cost-effective for home use, though more research is needed.
• Advocate for informed consumer choices to avoid overpriced options.