How to lose weight can be a tricky question for many. Some people try dietary changes and physical activity, while others look into other methods, such as surgery. One such method gaining traction lately is red light therapy (RLT) for weight loss. RLT is a non-invasive way to stimulate fat cells and reduce body fat.
But does it really work? Are red light therapy weight loss results actually seen in those who have tried it? What do the red light therapy weight loss reviews from past users say?
It specifically looks at stomach red light therapy weight loss before and after to better understand how effective this type of therapy is. Continue reading to learn more about RLT for weight loss, its scientific basis, and user reviews on what they experienced during their treatments.
Definition of red light therapy
Red light therapy is a type of phototherapy that uses natural red and near-infrared lights to improve health. It works by stimulating cells in the body, promoting healing and regeneration. This technology has been used for years to treat skin issues such as acne, wrinkles, scars, and age spots. More recently, it has also become popular for its potential benefits for weight loss.
Many small studies are being published and discussed online about the potential health benefits of red light therapy. While some studies show promising results, its overall effectiveness has not yet been fully determined. You may hear alternative terms that refer to red light therapy, such as:
- Photobiomodulation and phototherapy
- Biostimulation, photonic stimulation
- Cold laser therapy
- Soft laser therapy
- Non-thermal LED light
- Low-power laser therapy
- Low-level laser light therapy
- Red light lipo therapy
How does it work with regards to weight loss?
The principles behind red light therapy are quite simple. The energy from the red and infrared lights stimulates mitochondria within fat cells, causing them to break down fats into free fatty acids.
Red light creates pores in fat cells by penetrating through the skin. The fatty acids within the cells are liquefied, which causes lipolysis. As a result, the cells shrink, and the body naturally eliminates the fat through waste. These can then be burned off through exercise or excreted naturally through sweat or urine.
According to a study published in the journal Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, the mitochondria found in skin cells are capable of absorbing light particles. This results in increased production of adenosine triphosphate, which is the energy source for all cells.
Stomach red light therapy weight loss works on the same principle, only focusing its energy on the stomach area. It is important to note that this type of therapy is not a miracle cure for obesity. Rather, it can help speed up the fat-burning process and promote healthy weight loss when used in conjunction with an overall healthy lifestyle.
Potential benefits of red light therapy for weight loss
- Aids fat loss. The primary benefit of red light therapy for weight loss is its ability to increase the efficiency of lipolysis. This can lead to overall fat loss, especially in stubborn areas, effectively assisting diet and exercise to lose weight and speed up the weight loss process.
- Supports metabolism. Red light also speeds up cellular metabolism. According to various studies, exposing the subcutaneous fat layer to infrared light within the wavelength range of 635–680 nm can convert the wavelengths into cellular energy. This, in turn, promotes circulation and stimulates the metabolism of the cells.
- Stimulates collagen production. As red light penetrates through the skin’s layers, it stimulates collagen production, which helps reduce cellulite, wrinkles, and loose skin due to weight loss. This can give you a more youthful appearance.
How much weight can you lose with red light therapy?
The amount of weight you can lose with RLT will depend on how often and consistently you use it. It also depends on the device you use. You can choose the red light therapy devices available for home use, which means you have more time for weight loss. Generally, users who combine RLT with diet and exercise can expect to experience greater results than those who don’t. That being said, its effectiveness varies from person to person.
There is controversy surrounding red light therapy for weight loss. While patients have reported positive results and studies have shown impressive outcomes, some healthcare professionals and researchers remain skeptical about its effectiveness.
For many individuals, red light therapy has been a valuable tool for achieving weight loss and maintaining it over time. Red light therapy weight loss reviews are widely available from users who have successfully shed pounds with this type of treatment.
The results of a six-week pilot study involving 60 participants showed that receiving red light treatments twice a week resulted in a slight reduction of 2 cm in waist circumference. It is important to note that the study was conducted without a control group, which limits the findings.
In another study, 67 individuals were randomly selected to receive either 6 low-level laser therapy (LLLT) treatments over two weeks or no treatment. The study was double-blind, meaning neither the participants nor the researchers knew which group received the treatment. Results showed that the group who received LLLT lost an average of 8.9 cm from their abdomen, hips, and thighs, while the control group did not see significant decreases in measurements.
In addition, there was a two-week study conducted on 86 people at a US clinic which showed a notable reduction in the waist (2.8 cm), hip (2 cm), and thigh circumference (3 cm). However, it’s important to note that the study did not have a control group.A double-blind, placebo-controlled study has also confirmed the effectiveness of red light therapy for weight loss. After 4 weeks, the experimental group showed a reduction of 2.15 cm in waist circumference compared to the control group.
Overall, the evidence suggests that red light therapy can be beneficial for weight loss. However, it should be noted that combining RLT with a healthy diet and exercise is most likely to yield the best results. Additionally, individual results may vary.
Factors that affect the success rate of a red light therapy treatment for weight loss
While the evidence suggests that RLT can be beneficial for weight loss, a few factors may influence its effectiveness.
- Diet and exercise habits. It’s important to keep in mind that diet and exercise are still the cornerstones of any successful weight loss program. RLT can help boost metabolism and promote healthy cellular function, but it is not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
- Frequency of treatment. The frequency of red light therapy treatments will also have an impact on the results. Generally speaking, two or three sessions per week are recommended for maximum effectiveness. Additionally, consistency is key; stick with your treatment plan until you reach your desired outcome. Generally, the results of red light therapy fat loss can be seen within 12 weeks.
- Age and body composition. Age and body composition can influence how effective RLT is for weight loss. Since younger people tend to have more responsive cells than older individuals, they may see better results with RLT. Additionally, individuals with higher body fat percentages may experience more significant waist and hip circumference reductions than those with lower body fat percentages.
- Overall health and wellness status. Overall health and wellness can impact how RLT works. People in good health and with normal hormone levels may see better results than those with underlying medical conditions or hormonal imbalances. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before beginning any weight loss programme.
Takeaway
Red light therapy has been shown to be effective for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. It can help to reduce fat in the abdomen, hips, and thighs by stimulating cellular energy production. However, it is important to remember that individual results will vary and that age, body composition, and overall health & wellness status can all affect the success of RLT treatments.
While red light therapy is generally considered safe with minimal side effects, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before beginning any weight loss program. Additionally, there are red light therapy devices available for home use, but it is important to make sure you are using one that is approved by a medical professional and of the highest quality.
Red light therapy can be effective in aiding weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. It’s important to keep in mind that individual results may vary and that consulting with a healthcare provider before beginning any treatment plan is always recommended. RLT can help you reach your weight loss goals with patience and consistency.
Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
