Can Red Light Therapy Help Prevent Type 2 Diabetes?

Red light therapy (RLT) may offer support in reducing risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes, particularly for individuals with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or metabolic syndrome.

Early-stage studies suggest that regular exposure to red and near-infrared light—especially around 670 nm and 850 nm wavelengths—may improve glucose uptake, enhance mitochondrial function, and increase insulin sensitivity. This is thought to be due to improved cellular energy metabolism (ATP production) and reduced inflammation.

While RLT is not a cure or replacement for diet and exercise, it may be a helpful adjunctive tool—especially when used consistently and in combination with a healthy lifestyle.

⚠️ However, these benefits are not yet proven in large-scale clinical trials, and the FDA has not approved RLT devices for diabetes prevention or treatment. Speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness protocol.

✅ Some users report improvements in post-meal blood sugar regulation and energy levels with daily RLT sessions. Devices that emit targeted wavelengths between 660 nm and 850 nm, ideally with a power density between 20–100 mW/cm², are typically used for metabolic health applications.