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Strong Support

Shining a specific kind of infrared light on the heads of stressed rats helps their brain cells produce more energy, bringing their energy levels back up to normal, like in rats that aren't stressed.

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Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

12

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12

Transcranial Photobiomodulation Modulates Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Complex IV Activity in Anhedonic-Like Behavior

Randomized Controlled Trial
Animal
2026 Feb 21

Scientists shone infrared light on the heads of stressed rats and found their brain cells started making more energy, just like healthy rats. This suggests the light might help fix energy problems in the brain linked to depression.

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Source Study

Transcranial Photobiomodulation Modulates Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Complex IV Activity in Anhedonic-Like Behavior

Score: 12
DOI: 10.1007/s11064-026-04681-2

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When rats are under long-term stress, shining red light on their heads makes a key energy part in their brain work slower, but shining infrared light makes it work faster—so different colors of light have opposite effects on brain energy.

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