Red light therapy has positive effects on mitochondrial function and can be used to treat various conditions and promote healing.
Maintaining optimal cardiovascular health involves assessing individual risk factors, reducing inflammation, optimizing lipid levels, managing blood pressure, and promoting nitric oxide production through lifestyle modifications, supplements, and medications.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation, has shown positive effects on mitochondrial function. By penetrating the mitochondria and stimulating nitric oxide production, red light therapy increases ATP production, enhances blood flow, and promotes healing. It is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, improve collagen production, accelerate hair growth, and activate stem cells. Athletes often utilize red light therapy for faster recovery. The therapy can be done once or twice a day, depending on the condition being treated.
Understanding Cardiovascular Health
Maintaining optimal cardiovascular health involves various factors. It is crucial to assess individual risk factors through comprehensive testing and determine appropriate interventions. Reducing inflammation, optimizing lipid levels, managing blood pressure, and promoting nitric oxide production are key areas of focus. Lifestyle modifications, such as sun exposure, earthing, and regular exercise, can positively impact cardiovascular health. Additionally, there are supplements and medications available to stabilize plaque and prevent cardiovascular events.
The Importance of Sleep and Sleep Apnea
Sleep plays a significant role in cardiovascular health. Undiagnosed sleep apnea is prevalent among individuals, including those who are fit and have normal body weight. Sleep apnea can negatively affect blood pressure, oxygen levels, and heart rhythms. Screening for sleep apnea is crucial, especially in cases of uncontrolled hypertension and other related symptoms. Reducing caffeine intake, particularly for slow caffeine metabolizers, early in the day improves sleep quality.
Other Considerations for Heart Health
Various additional aspects impact heart health, such as genetics, hormone levels, and the balance of electrolytes in the body. Understanding genetic markers through testing can inform personalized interventions. Optimal hormone levels, including testosterone, are imperative, although extreme therapeutic use of testosterone may have adverse effects. Red light therapy can assist with mitochondrial function and positively affect blood vessels. Maintaining proper electrolyte balance and getting tested for cardiovascular health markers can also be beneficial.
Dr. Michael Twyman is a board-certified cardiologist who focuses on the prevention and early detection of heart disease. Dr. Twyman completed his cardiovascular training at St Louis University after he completed a 4-year active duty tour as an internist at Naval Hospital Beaufort. He has been in private practice since 2012. Heart Attack Prevention is his passion. He utilizes the best of conventional medicine, integrative/functional medicine, quantum medicine, and biohacking to get to the root cause of the patient’s cardiovascular issues.
Check out part 1 of this episode before you dive in!
In this part 2 we discuss:
How do you know if you’re at high risk for heart attacks
The amazing FREE way to reduce inflammation in the body
Is caffeine really bad for you?
The best supplements for health and longevity
This episode is brought to you by LMNT, BetterHelp, InsideTracker, and 1stPhorm