In the realm of emerging wellness technologies, red and near-infrared light therapy stands out as a beacon of potential health benefits. This non-invasive treatment, also known as photobiomodulation, has gained attention for its positive effects on various aspects of health, particularly in skin and muscle recovery. Let's delve into the illuminating world of red and near-infrared light therapy and explore how it can enhance your well-being.

The Sun emits energy in various forms, each associated with specific ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. Here's a breakdown of the forms of energy emitted by the Sun:

1. Visible Light: This is the portion of solar radiation that is visible to the human eye, creating the spectrum of colors we perceive.                  

• Percentage: Approximately 42%
• Wavelength Range: 380 to 750 nanometers

2. Infrared (IR) Radiation: Infrared radiation is not visible to the human eye but is felt as heat. It can be categorized into near, mid, and far infrared based on its wavelength.

• Percentage: Approximately 49%
• Wavelength Range: Greater than 750 nanometers
• Further Breakdown:
  • Near-Infrared (NIR): 0.75 to 1.5 micrometers
  • Mid-Infrared (MIR): 1.5 to 4 micrometers
  • Far-Infrared (FIR): 4 to 1000 micrometers (1 millimeter)

3. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: UV radiation is beyond the violet end of the visible spectrum. UVA and UVB reach the Earth's surface, playing a role in processes like vitamin D synthesis and causing sunburn.

• Percentage: Approximately 9%
• Wavelength Range:
  • UVA: 320 to 400 nanometers
  • UVB: 280 to 320 nanometers
  • UVC: 100 to 280 nanometers (mostly absorbed by Earth's atmosphere)

Each form of energy serves different functions and has distinct interactions with the Earth's atmosphere and surface. While visible light is the most familiar, infrared and ultraviolet radiation also play crucial roles in various natural processes. Most of the energy emitted from the sun in in the form of infrared light, so using infrared technology is approximating exposure to the sun, without the harm of UV light.

The human skin consists of several layers, each with distinct properties and functions. Understanding how red and NIR light navigate through these layers provides insight into their therapeutic reach.

1. Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin is the epidermis, primarily composed of dead skin cells. Red light is adept at penetrating this layer, influencing various surface-level processes such as collagen production and inflammation.
2. Dermis: Deeper within lies the dermis, home to blood vessels, hair follicles, and connective tissues. Both red and NIR light penetrate the dermal layer, impacting blood flow, promoting wound healing, and influencing cellular activities that contribute to skin health.
3. Subcutaneous Tissue: The subcutaneous layer, rich in fat cells and larger blood vessels, poses a greater challenge for light penetration. While red light can reach this layer to a certain extent, NIR light excels in penetrating deeper, influencing cellular and metabolic processes within the subcutaneous tissues.

NIR light can affect the structure of water molecules through a process known as photodissociation or photolysis. This process involves breaking molecular bonds using light energy. While NIR light does not directly ionize water molecules, it can influence their structure in several ways:

1. Vibrational Resonance: Water molecules have natural vibrational frequencies, and NIR light is capable of resonating with these frequencies. When NIR light interacts with water molecules, it can enhance the vibrational motion of the water molecules. This increased vibrational energy may lead to changes in the structure and properties of the water.
2. Cluster Formation: Water molecules can form clusters due to hydrogen bonding. NIR light has been suggested to influence the clustering of water molecules, potentially leading to alterations in the arrangement and properties of water clusters.
3. Temperature Effects: NIR light can induce heating in water molecules by increasing their kinetic energy. The temperature rise associated with NIR exposure may contribute to changes in water structure and dynamics.
4. Hydrogen Bonding: NIR light can influence the strength and dynamics of hydrogen bonds between water molecules. Changes in hydrogen bonding patterns may affect the overall structure and properties of water.

​The concept of NIR light influencing the structuring of water into exclusion zone (EZ) water, also known as the fourth phase of water, is associated with the work of Dr. Gerald Pollack. According to Pollack's research, EZ water differs in its molecular arrangement from ordinary water, showing a structured pattern that extends beyond the traditional liquid structure.

Formation of Exclusion Zone (EZ) Water:

1. Light Absorption: Near-Infrared light is thought to be absorbed by certain molecules, particularly chromophores, present in water. This absorption may trigger changes in the molecular arrangement of water molecules, leading to the formation of structured zones known as exclusion zones.
2. Structured Water Molecules: EZ water is characterized by a more ordered structure, where water molecules align in a way that creates a distinct phase with unique properties. This structured water has been suggested to have enhanced stability and a higher viscosity compared to regular water.

Influence on Mitochondrial Function:

1. Increased Cellular Energy Production: Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, play a crucial role in energy production through processes like oxidative phosphorylation. Some theories propose that EZ water, with its structured nature, may have properties that enhance mitochondrial function.
2. Improved Cellular Communication: Structured water may influence intercellular communication, potentially enhancing signaling pathways vital for cellular processes. Improved communication between cells could contribute to better overall cellular function, including mitochondrial activities.
3. Reduced Oxidative Stress: The structured nature of EZ water has been associated with potential antioxidant-like properties. Mitochondria are susceptible to oxidative stress, and if EZ water indeed possesses antioxidant characteristics, it may contribute to a more favorable cellular environment.

It's important to note that the exact mechanisms and effects of NIR light on water structure are complex and may vary depending on factors such as the wavelength of the light, intensity, and exposure duration. The idea of NIR light structuring water has gained attention in various fields, including alternative health practices, and environmental research. The field of water structuring and its potential implications for cellular biology is still an area of active investigation within scientific communities.

Red light therapy emerges not only as a therapeutic modality but as a potent hormetic stressor, operating on a biphasic dose-response principle. In the realm of hormesis, a phenomenon where exposure to low doses of stressors triggers adaptive responses, red light therapy takes center stage by demonstrating a nuanced and beneficial relationship with the body's stress response.

Hormesis, in its essence, is the body's ability to adapt and respond positively to low doses of stress. Red light therapy, with its application of low levels of red and NIR light, acts as a hormetic stressor, initiating adaptive responses that strengthen cellular resilience and overall well-being.

The biphasic dose response of red light therapy implies that its effects on the body follow a distinctive pattern. At lower doses, red light elicits a positive response, triggering cellular repair, mitochondrial enhancement, and anti-inflammatory effects. As the dose increases, the beneficial effects continue, but there's a point where diminishing returns occur. Understanding this biphasic response allows for optimized use of red light therapy for maximum benefit.

Understanding the biphasic dose response of red light therapy allows for a personalized and optimal application. Tailoring the dose to individual needs ensures that the therapy remains within the hormetic zone, where the benefits are maximized without reaching a point of diminishing returns.

Incorporating red light therapy into your wellness routine becomes a strategic choice for embracing hormetic stress. The biphasic dose response unfolds a journey of cellular resilience, mitochondrial optimization, and enhanced well-being, showcasing red light therapy as a dynamic and adaptive ally in the pursuit of holistic health.

Red and NIR light therapy is generally considered safe with minimal side effects. However, appropriate device selection, treatment duration, and wavelength specificity are crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

It is very important to do a photosensitivity test prior to long sessions with your red light therapy device. To perform the test, turn on both the red and NIR functions on your red light therapy device and shine the light on an exposed part of your forearm, about 3 inches to 1 foot away, for 4 minutes. If you experience any discomfort or redness on your skin it is encouraged to not use your red light therapy device until you have sought professional advice from your doctor or healthcare provider.

Whether baby wipes are toxic or not depends on the ingredients. Some popular brands, such as Huggies or Pampers, that are known for their baby scent use an astounding amount of chemicals to achieve that scent.
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These chemicals are toxic for both babies and the environment. Baby wipes using natural and organic ingredients typically do not contain these additional chemicals, making them wonderful non-toxic baby wipes. 

Many moms are well-intended to select the common brands of baby wipes. Afterall, baby wipes are packed with chemicals to make them efficient, a little more durable than toilet paper, and smell beautiful. However, some of those chemicals are not good for your baby.
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It is in the best interest of the consumer, the mom and baby, to make sure to read the package before you purchase a pack of disposable baby wipes. Here are some ingredients to look out for:

The fragrance is a general term that is used to encompass several different ingredients. If an ingredient contributes to making the wipes smell good, it can be labeled as “fragrance.”
Many of these fragrances are petro-chemicals and are therefore toxic, and some of them are just not good for your little one’s skin. Instead, opt for fragrance-free wipes. Babies naturally smell adorable!

If you do wind up buying baby wipes that are scented, double-check the ingredient list. Companies can use the term fragrance to encompass harmful ingredients. They are not required to list the ingredients or chemicals that are used to make their baby wipes smell the way that they do because this is considered a trade secret. This means that if the fragrance is created using parabens, for example, the company does not have to tell you because it is in the “fragrance” category.

Fragrances have been linked to all sorts of health conditions, from autoimmune issues including contact dermatitis, and migraines and respiratory issues.

Make no mistake - you read that right. Formaldehyde has made headlines in recent years as it’s been found in baby wipes. This chemical is a known carcinogen, meaning that it can cause cancer.
It’s also a known irritant causing allergic reactions in babies. Additionally, formaldehyde is known to be:

• Genotoxic: damage the genetic information within a cell causing mutations, which may lead to cancer
• ​Inflammatory
• Neurotoxic: damage to the brain and nerve cells
• Hepatotoxic: damage to the liver and liver cells
• Oxidant: damage cells by starting chemical chain reactions such as lipid peroxidation, or by oxidizing DNA or proteins
• Teratogenic: cause congenital disorders in a developing embryo or fetus

Researchers have observed over half of the popular baby wipe brands that were tested released formaldehyde during a study. What is even scarier is that none of the wipes listed formaldehyde as an ingredient. 

A current examination of the scientific data collected on the exposure to formaldehyde is associated with the following health conditions and abnormal physiologic events:

This antibacterial ingredient found in soaps and other products has been linked to allergies, endocrine disruption, weight gain and inflammatory responses, and may aggravate the growth of liver and kidney tumors. It’s also used commonly as a preservative.

However, Triclosan was recently removed from antibacterial hand soaps because it can pass through the skin, which will lead to it having an effect on the body. It’s known to cause an allergic reaction as well as disrupt hormones. When triclosan is broken down, it can turn into Dioxin, which is known to cause cancer. 

Here is list of the known physiologic mechanisms in which triclosan exerts it's harmful effects:

• Anti-Fertility: an agent that is known to disrupt reproductive function
• Neurotoxic
• Abortive: an agent that can result in spontaneous abortion to pregnant mothers
• Endocrine Disruptor (Thyroid): suppresses the function of the thyroid gland which is essential for normal homeostasis
• Cardiotoxic: damages the function of the heart cells and heart function
• Cytotoxic: damages cellular function
• Genotoxic: property of chemical agents that damage the genetic information within a cell causing mutations, which may lead to cancer
• Hepatotoxic
• Sulfotransferase inhibitors: inhibits the function of the enzyme sulfotransferase, which plays a role in liver diseases

Exposure to, and the consumption of triclosan is associated with the following health conditions and abnormal physiologic events: 

Propylene glycol, also known as propane-1,2-diol, is compound used for various cosmetic, pharmaceutical and industrial applications, including as a solvent, humectant, preservative, and surfactant.

Propylene glycol consumption results in kidney, liver, and neurologic toxicity, and it is certainly not recommended for pregnant women. Propylene glycol is a skin irritant, it may increase the absorption of other harmful excipients, and disrupts permeability of the blood brain barrier.

When used in products like baby wipes, propylene glycol is intended to increase skin absorption of any ingredients more effectively, and at a quicker rate. This results in the body absorbing all of the toxic ingredients that are found in baby wipes, so it’s best to avoid this ingredient entirely. 

​Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), otherwise known as Macrogol, Carbowax and many other derivatives when combined with other substances. PEG is a synthetic chemical compound derived from petroleum that is widely used for a variety of uses, including as a moisture carrier, solvent, preservative, thickener, and much more. 

PEG is another chemical that will help the skin absorb the ingredients of the baby wipes. Even though it’s a different chemical that is used, it still does the same thing as propylene glycol, which helps your little one absorb chemicals which may include carcinogens, including ethylene oxide, and potentially dioxane depending on the manufacturer. 

PEG is classified as biologically inert by our FDA. It is the “Gold Standard” for use in many medications to increase the blood clearance time, or in other words, the time it remains in one’s system, thereby enhancing drug effect. It is also used in drug manufacturing as an excipient for long term stabilization, bulking, and other therapeutic enhancements. It is used as a coating to prevent bacterial adhesion on orthopedic screws and sutures. In addition to medical uses, PEG is also used in cosmetics, foods, industrial applications, and other health and beauty products such as soaps, shampoos, toothpastes. It is also used as an e-cigarette liquid. PEG is everywhere in our environment, which is what many have surmised has led to a high percentage of the US population developing anti-PEG antibodies. This, of course, presents a significant challenge to those who rely on this substance in their manufacturing.
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Scientific studies to quantify the seriousness of the problem estimate that approximately 72% of the US population has acquired anti PEG antibodies. The referenced study used blood samples taken from 1990-1999 and earlier, showing a steady increase over time in the percentage of those with antibodies to PEG, making it conservative to estimate, after two decades, that the incidence is closer to 80% today. This circumstance has concerned the medical and pharmaceutical communities as an equally effective alternative has escaped identification, although several have been suggested, and because the great cost of shifting to such an alternative.

Not only is PEG a “stealth” medicinal additive, delaying blood clearance due to its properties, but it is a stealth allergen, the vast majority of the population never having heard of it and many in the healthcare industry being unaware of its antigenic properties. A physician survey found:

“Although 91% of respondents were aware of antidrug antibodies in general, only 22% were aware of APA (Anti-PEG Antibody) responses. Further, there was limited awareness (35%) of PEG’s inclusion in prescribed PEGylated therapeutics.”

Sodium benzoate is also used as a preservative, to extend the shelf-life of products, and is actually the sodium salt of benzoic acid. 

The substance is an odorless, crystalline powder made by combining benzoic acid and sodium hydroxide, per a December 2015 article in ​Biotechnology and Health Sciences​.

Chemical exposure and consumption of sodium benzoate is linked with a variety of health conditions and abnormal physiologic events, including but not limited to:​

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The best organic diapers are not only safe for the environment but also safe for your baby. But, it is challenging to pick the best diaper brand when every other brand touts their diaper as the safest. Today, there are two sustainable diaper options - cloth diapers and disposable diapers. These two diapers help in two ways; reduce the buildup of diapers in landfills and protect your baby from the harsh chemicals, such as chlorine, in conventional diapers.

With the organic diapers, your baby will not suffer the chemicals' effects, and the environment will thank you for it. Cloth diapers are baby-friendly and environment-friendly, but although they might be the best natural diapers, they are not mum-friendly, which is why organic diapers rock.

When shopping for diapers, only go for a chemical-free diaper (watch out for chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and chlorine), synthetic fragrance-free, and free of dyes. Again, ensure that all the materials used to make the diaper are natural or organic and are biodegradable.

Besides making the environment unsightly, these disposable diapers contain chemical ingredients that could harm the environment, animals, and human beings. According to the Real Diaper Association, some components include polyethylene, petroleum, gelling material, perfume, and polypropylene. They also have non-renewable petroleum products.

Some of the disposable diapers contain chemicals that might lead to the release of dioxin into the environment. Dioxin is a toxin linked to cancer and health concerns in fetuses. ​

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