Episode Details

One of the more common questions I get asked, as it relates to red light therapy, is how is it different than infrared saunas? Do they elicit the same health benefits? Which one is "better"? If I had to choose one, which modality should I use? Understandably, the major hangup and confusion comes from both technologies integrating infrared light... granted of different flavors of infrared and, thus, different physiological responses.

We cover the basics of what infrared saunas are, the difference between traditional vs. infrared saunas, discuss the ​top 10 benefits derived from consistent hyperthermia treatment and more. Possibly, most importantly, I delineate the differences between infrared saunas and red light therapy and emphasize the importance of not doing red light therapy and sauna simultaneously! This is especially important to understand and appreciate, as I have seen more and more often that infrared sauna companies are incorporating red light therapy (either for ambience lighting and/or actual red light therapy panels and other devices inside of the sauna). Long story short: the heat from the sauna inhibits the benefits you would otherwise obtain from red light therapy. ​​
Lastly, we will cover a very, very hot-off-the-press photobiomodulation research article that looks at red light therapy for treating children with premyopia. In a world with exponentially increased screen time, particularly in youths, any type of alternative modality to help prevent, stave off and reverse eye and vision issues ​is a massive deal. If you have eyes, this study has some groundbreaking results that you will want to learn about.

I hope you enjoy the information in today's solosode. Please share this episode with family, friends and colleagues if you find the content especially interesting and/or impactful.

​​ As always, light up (and sweat out) your health! -

• Introduction and Weather Update (00:00:00):
  • Dr. Mike Belkowski welcomes listeners to another episode of the Red Light Report.
  • Mentions cold weather in Montana, ranging from -20 to -30 degrees.
  • Talks about the coziness of his surroundings during the recording.
• Sauna and Red Light Therapy Discussion (00:00:26) - 00:02:35):
  • Dr. Mike discusses his recent activities, including sauna and red light therapy.
  • Announces a focus on the differences between infrared saunas and red light therapy in this episode.
  • Expresses the need to clarify the topic for new followers.
• Infrared Sauna Overview (00:03:00) - 00:08:42):
  • Dr. Mike delves into infrared saunas, emphasizing the use of far infrared light.
  • Advises seeking third-party testing for companies claiming full spectrum infrared light.
  • Highlights the importance of understanding the intensity of near-infrared light.
• Benefits of Infrared Saunas (00:08:42:25 - 00:17:48:13):
  • Explains the benefits of infrared saunas, including heart health, detoxification, and athletic recovery.
  • Discusses the role of far infrared rays in penetration and detoxification.
  • Explores the impact on growth hormone levels, arthritic and muscular pain relief, and muscle gain/fat loss.
  • Mentions the potential increase in muscle regrowth through intermittent hyperthermia.