Scientists Says Infrared Light Can Beat Dementia
Scientists at the University of Durham in the UK have said infrared light therapy will help fight the symptoms of dementia, according to the journal Photobiomodulation Photomedicine and Laser Surgery .
The study involved 14 healthy Britons over 45 years old. For a month, they used a special helmet twice a day, inside of which were mounted 14 LED lamps, which emitted infrared light with a wavelength of 1060-1080 nm.
Before and after the experiment, the researchers tested the memory, verbal and motor skills of the participants in the experiments. It turned out that those who received the therapy had improved motor functions, memory, and the speed of information processing. However, there were no complaints about side effects.
Scientists expect that with the help of transcranial infrared light therapy, it will be possible to cope with the symptoms of dementia in the future. Earlier experiments have shown that infrared light can stimulate mitochondria, increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate, which is essential for energy metabolism in cells. ATP synthesis in patients with dementia is markedly reduced, which prevents nerve cells from recovering. In addition, therapy can increase nitric oxide levels, thereby improving blood flow to the brain.
Experts noted that in rodents, this kind of exposure reduced the amount of beta-amyloid, a protein produced in Alzheimer's disease, in the brain.
Infrared light therapy, but with a different device, has already been tested in people with dementia. Scientists have managed to improve their condition, but the technology requires more careful study.
Earlier, Igor Lukyanov, the chief freelance specialist of the Ministry of Health of the Crimea on geriatrics, told how to keep a clear mind in old age. According to him, the main thing in this issue is the preservation of social and physical activity. He noted that in adulthood, one should spend more time with relatives, talk, read, learn poetry.
