Can Red Light Therapy Lower Blood Sugar?

Early-stage clinical research suggests that red light therapy (RLT) may help lower blood sugar levels—particularly after meals—by enhancing how the body processes glucose. This effect is likely due to improved mitochondrial function, which increases the energy demands of cells and prompts them to absorb more glucose from the bloodstream.

📚 A 2024 study from University College London (UCL) found that a single 15-minute session of 670 nm red light applied to the upper back reduced post-meal blood sugar levels by 27.7% on average, compared to a placebo session.

This glucose-lowering effect is believed to occur through:
🔋 Increased ATP production in mitochondria
🚪 Activation of GLUT4 glucose transporters, especially in muscle tissue
📉 Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose clearance
✅ These findings support the idea that RLT may serve as a complementary tool for metabolic health—especially for people managing insulin resistance, prediabetes, or postprandial blood sugar spikes.

⚠️ However, it’s important to note that the effect is temporary and has so far been observed in small, short-term studies involving healthy adults. Long-term outcomes and studies involving diabetic individuals are still needed. RLT is not a replacement for medication or lifestyle changes, but it shows promise as a non-invasive support tool.