In stressed and aging cells, the mitochondria produce nitric oxide (NO), which competes with oxygen for binding sites and prevents oxygen from binding to those sites during the respiratory process, which converts blood sugar into cellular energy. The body effectively controls excess nitric oxide with rest, an antioxidant-rich diet, and sleep. When the body is under a lot of stress, it cannot eliminate nitric oxide as quickly as it is made. Oxidative stress is a result of the accumulation of NO, which also produces ROS (reactive oxygen species). The harmful processes of inflammation, cell death, and the production of the genes linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s, osteoarthritis, and other disorders are started by reactive oxygen species.

Red light therapy has emerged as a modern-day panacea for the treatment of medical conditions with an expanding list of claimed advantages. The treatment of hair loss, depression, rheumatoid arthritis, and even cancer are among the claims made, along with those that collagen formation, immune system stimulation, and tissue healing are possible.