Red Light Therapy: Biohack or Bullsh*t? | Whole Supp Blog
Once a fringe recovery tool reserved for elite athletes and expensive spas, red light therapy has officially entered the wellness mainstream. But does it actually do anything?
Let’s break it down.
Red light therapy (RLT), or photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function. The key mechanism? Mitochondrial enhancement. These light waves are thought to boost the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of our cells, which can speed up muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and even enhance skin health.
A 2016 paper in Cell Metabolism found that red and near-infrared light can improve mitochondrial function and oxidative stress markers in muscle tissue. NIH-backed studies suggest potential benefits for reducing joint pain, improving muscle endurance, and accelerating recovery post-exercise.
However, the clinical evidence is still emerging. Variables like dosage, duration, and device quality significantly affect outcomes. And while some studies show positive effects, others report marginal gains.
So, is it a miracle cure? No. Is it a tool worth exploring? Absolutely—especially when paired with solid recovery foundations: sleep, nutrition, hydration.
Bottom line: Red light therapy isn’t magic, but it might help. Just don’t expect it to work if you’re skipping the basics.
Fuel your recovery from the inside out. Whole Supp provides science-backed nutrients to support mitochondrial health, cellular energy, and full-body restoration.
Jul 08, 2025• Posted by Darren O’Reilly
