Reversing The Aging Process - an Enlightened Doctor's Discovery

©Copyright 1999 by Dr. Fouad I. Ghaly, M.D.

 Another patient who suffers from extreme intestinal dysbiosis has recovered, and several of my elderly patients with spinal problems have reported improvement in range of motion and relief from pain using a FAR Infrared waistwrap. I myself have tried it. My shoulder doesn't hurt when I apply compresses of the same material, even after a long day at work. My family and friends have noticed a change in my energy levels, as well as my personality. I feel ten years younger!"

"Listen, I know you're excited, and it sounds impressive, but is this just a new gimmick? Are you sure it's not all working because you want it to work?" Understandably, I have to qualify information that comes to me. At this point in my career, I am getting accustomed to these calls. It seems that the medical field itself is going through a transition, and the doctors I associate with are increasingly more interested in non-traditional methods, as long as the treatments work. Many of my patients also often enlighten me on alternative perspectives on health

. Over the years, I have witnessed the limits of my expertise in chemical and surgical procedures and medications for certain conditions. Therefore, although I am still a sound supporter of allopathic medicine in the treatment of contagious diseases, I am perpetually intrigued to find new ways to expand my abilities to help my patients.

Still, his claims did seem a little too incredible to be true, and I immediately shelved it in my mind under "U" for unbelievable. Yet, my investigative mind spurred me to embark on a search for more quantifiable research on far-infrared light and negative ions, both of which were key factors in the effectiveness of the wraps being used. The following is a limited report on my findings:

Light Medicine of the future?

Light medicine has been a topic well documented since the early 1900's. Even as far back as 1870, Dr. Pleasanton, a researcher in the United States, published research showing the relationship between light frequency and the rate of growth of cells and tissues, as well as their rate of cell division.¹ Specific wavelengths affect our metabolism and our aging process, according to "enlightened" scientists. Dr. Harry Riley Spitler, M.D., O.D., proved in his book that light plays an important role in regulating the autonomous nervous system, as well, pointing out how certain spectrums of light are crucial to our daily wellbeing, emotionally and physically.²

Previously, I was only familiar with laser light treatments used to tone and rejuvenate skin, reducing lines and improving blemishes. I am more interested at present in the beneficial effects of the application of specific spectrums of natural light for overall health. One study presented by Dr. Zane Kime, M.D., stated that sunlight is a leading factor in strengthening the body's resistance to infectious diseases, increasing the oxygen capacity of the blood, and improving stress tolerance. Laboratory experiments supporting his study show that exposure to sunlight increases lymphocytes and neutrophils, and reduces the frequency of colds and respiratory infections.³

Dr. Richard Wurtman, Professor of Endocrinology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, stated that wavelengths of light are almost as important as vitamins and minerals to the body's proper functioning.⁴ Without proper nutrients or oxygen, our body suffers. How much so also does our health suffer considering our modern life, with our severe lack of natural light?

What is the Healthiest Spectrum of Light?

Unfortunately, the wavelength of light that is the most beneficial to the body is often the one we are exposed to the least, due to pollution and everyday lifestyle. The spectrum of light that appears to be most resonant with cell tissues seems to lie within the far infrared spectrum. Studies suggest that far infrared light stimulates the production of cell tissue and rapidly promotes the regeneration of skin and blood tissue in areas exposed to it.⁵ This could also prove to be especially helpful in the recovery of wounds and following surgery in preventing the formation of scar tissue.

One of the first pioneers in the field was Dr. Neils Finsen, who was curing lesions and variola using red and infrared rays. More recent research performed by Tiina Karu, M.D., of the Laser Technology Center in Russia, holds that this spectrum of light speeds up cellular metabolic processes, like stimulating the activity of mitochondria, and triggering enzyme activity as well as the healing, regeneration, and normalization of damaged cell tissue. Obviously, although we can receive this light from spending time in the sun, excessive exposure to certain rays, such as Ultraviolet Rays (UV) in sunlight can be damaging to our system. I see it in my patients who have spent years baking on the beaches.

The first research on isolating, or mimicking far infrared light was done through NASA decades ago. Recently, several scientists in Japan extended this technology, and designed a way to create fibers to be worn on the body that emit wavelengths the same as natural far infrared light from the sun, yet much more concentrated. The material itself was formed primarily out of several minerals with piezoelectric qualities, such as tourmaline and serpentine. The raw materials were highly costly, so the technology was not popularly used.

A breakthrough in 1994 caused the production of the "FAR Infrared" wraps that my associate had been using with great results. A textile engineer discovered how to mix the piezoelectric substances with a mineral oxide without minimizing the beneficial effects that the substance had on the body. A separate discovery was made in which the fibers themselves could be minimized in size (quite possibly one of the smallest diameter fibers created to date, being several times thinner than human hair). This maximized the amount of surface area, thus amplifying the amount of energy within a limited area of material. Therefore, even a thin, wearable wrap could be easily worn undistinguished under clothes, and comfortably worn. These FAR Infrared wraps were created for use on the following areas: Waist wraps, for digestive region and backaches, knee wraps, elbow wraps and wrist wraps for use on areas prone to joint and muscle injuries, and ankle wraps, which have been reported to be beneficial for foot problems as well as swelling or poor circulation. The manufacturers even created a blanket and mattress to generate the far infrared benefits to the entire body while sleeping, or relaxing.

I have found several studies that suggest the benefits of using far infrared light on injuries: The American Journal of Geriatrics has published a study in which elderly patients experienced an improvement of pain and disability from degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee. A fully randomized, partially double-blind trial resulted in a pain reduction of more than 50% within the group using the therapy, whereas there was no significant improvement in the placebo group. Studies done with Magnetic Resonance Imaging suggest a more rapid recovery from muscle fatigue, as you can see in the images.

Fig. 1. After 30 minutes exercise;
dark parts indicate muscle
fatigue (due to build-up of lactic acid)

Fig. 2. Instead of the usual 2-3 hours,
the FAR Infrared products help
muscles recover within 20 minutes only

Staying healthy and youthful - beyond exercise and nutrition

Dr. Zane Kime, M.D., in his book "Sunlight"⁶ holds up the findings that sunlight exposure is similar to physical exercise in its effects on the body, as it improves the balance of blood pressure, blood sugar, and an increase in oxygen in the cells, muscle strength, vitality and mental stability. Natural spectrums of light found in sunlight, for example, are essential for bone growth as well as preventing osteoporosis, regulating hormonal functions as well as immune functions. It has occurred to me that light may be a great help to patients who cannot exercise, because of health reasons, age, or lifestyle inhibitions.

The Anti-Aging Factor

As we age, we all experience a shift in our hormones, and researchers now feel this change is responsible for many of the maladies we associate with aging, such as menopause, sleeplessness, fatigue, arteriosclerosis, and others. In his research in Pennsylvania at the Thomas Jefferson Medical School, Dr. George Brainard has stated that light affects the hormonal balance of the body, in levels of melatonin, prolactin, cortisone, testosterone, TS4, LH, FSH, T3, and thyroid hormones. John Ott, a modern pioneer in this subject, attributes these affects to a process similar to the photosynthesis process in plants. In this process, light is converted by the body into electrochemical impulses that are sent to the pineal and pituitary glands, which send the hormones through the body's central nervous system to all the cells of the body.

The hormones affected through this process and the functioning of these glands are the growth hormone, thyroid hormone(TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, oxytoxin, melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH), and anti-diuretic hormone. Therefore, light is essential to the functioning of our entire endocrine system.⁷ As hormone replacement has mixed results at times, it is possible that in the future, doctors will prescribe light for therapy, in forms such as the FAR Infrared wraps.

Common problems associated with lifestyle and aging, such as hypertension and osteoporosis, headaches and digestive problems, are attributed by some scientists to be the result of excess acidity in our system.

 The American Medical Journal found that in patients with bone loss, alkalizing their system caused a decrease in bone loss. Their conclusion was that our typical American diet is acid-producing.⁸ The acids deposited in our blood are often stored by the body in forms of cholesterol, fatty acid, uric acid, and other villains that cause havoc in our system.⁹

 Sang Whang, the author of "Reverse Aging" claims that these excess acids can be eliminated with the use of far infrared products, along with consuming certain alkaline minerals and foods.¹⁰ The far infrared resonance heats up the internal temperature of the body, increasing circulation, thus enabling the blood to melt out the acidic toxins that have been deposited for years in one's arteries. A study done on carotid artery buildup showed an increase in blood flow within the artery after two nights of the subject sleeping on the FAR Infrared mattress, for an average of 10 hours a night.¹¹ As a doctor, I cannot recommend the wraps, as they are not FDA approved in this country as therapies for these particular maladies. However, if I were personally a sufferer of hypertension, or chronic arthritis, or any systemic problem, I would use the FAR Infrared mattress or wraps for my own health.

Negative Ions

The other element contained within the FAR Infrared technology that I investigated was the negative ions that were claimed to increase with the use of it. Nature's "life enhancing particles", negative ions, are molecules with an extra electron, discovered in 1899 by two scientists named Elster and Geitel. Mice live longer in certain cases when exposed to negative ions. They have been linked to killing germs, and preventing infections. Dr. Igho Hart Kornblueh, a physician, found that patients recovered 57% faster from surgery when exposed to large doses of negative ions. It has also been found that negative ions seem to help with allergies, migraines, and sinus problems.¹²

Although negative ions are plentiful in nature (occurring at almost twice the amount near the ocean or waterfalls as normal), our environment is sadly lacking these energetic boosters. Dr. William Rea, Chief of surgery at Brookhaven Medical Center in Texas, states that "Most houses don't breathe like they used to". Steel and concrete absorb most of the available negative ions in the atmosphere, and plastics have a positive static charge, so that the amount of negative ions that we receive is extremely minimal.

Emotional problems? Blame it on the ions, or the lack of them. The opposite of negative ions, positive ions, are particles with a missing electron. In certain courts, the issue of winds that bring in positive ions has been used as an excuse for erratic and criminal behavior. On the contrary, negative ions promote alpha brain waves, creating a calming effect. Dr. Albert P. Krueger, an American scientist well respected for his extensive work with ions, discovered that negative ions affect the rate at which serotonin is oxidized in the bloodstream. Serotonin is secreted by the pineal glands and intestines, and affects sleep, mood, nerve-impulses, blood-clotting, and contraction of smooth muscles. It is most popularly associated with feelings of security, peace, and satisfaction. Negative ions have been shown to reduce neurosis and anxiety.¹³ This may explain why so many people sing in the shower, or why one can't seem to fully wake up without one. When the water falls in the shower, it creates negative ions. Negative ions are also found plentifully around waterfalls and oceans. Vasil'yev, a Russian ion pioneer, showed in the 1970's that ions act on the endings of pulmonary afferent nerve fibers, and alter the functional state of the central nervous system, and through it, the peripheral organs.

The FAR Infrared material that I research also was shown to increase the rate of negative ions. This should be a relief for all of us who don't live or work at waterfalls or on the ocean shore. The people that I interviewed seemed to notice the calming effect of wearing the wraps, although they weren't told of this effect prior to wearing them.

As I approach my upper years, I am elated to use technology such as this to enhance my daily life, and increase my chances of living healthy long past my 90th birthday. I hope that you have the same opportunity.

References

1. Articles on Light Therapy
2. The Syntonic Principle, 1941, Harry Riley
Spitler, M.D., O.D.
3. Sunlight, Zane Kime, M.D., Pengrove, CA, World Health Publications, 1980
4. Articles on Light Therapy
5. Ibid, pg 278
6. Sunlight, Zane Kime, M.D., Pengrove, CA, World Health Publications, 1980
7. Articles on Light Therapy, pg261
8. New England Journal of Medicine, Volume 330, June 23, 1994
9. Reverse Aging, JSP Publishing,
Sang Whang 1990
10. Ibid
11. Mitsui Hospital Research Lab, Japan
12. Negative Ions, Vitamins of the Air? Jim Karnstedt and Don Strachan

 

When water is atomized, negative and positive charges are separated. Ions (charged particles) are formed when enough energy acts on a molecule such as carbon dioxide, oxygen, water or nitrogen to eject an electron. The displaced electron attaches itself to a nearby molecule, which then becomes a negative ion. The original molecule (minus an electron) is now a positive ion. These ions, in turn, react with dust and pollutants to form larger particles. Small negative ions (usually no more than 12 gaseous molecules clustered around a charged atom or molecule) are short-lived and highly mobile. We can find negative ions in nature. For example, molecules which are torn from the surface of water bear a negative charge (small negative ions) whereas large drops or the entire mass of water are positive.

This provides an explanation for the refreshing, invigorating effect of residences close to a waterfall or spring, or even after rain. However, in the cities, in closed rooms, in cars etc., the proportion of negative ions is markedly reduced compared with undisturbed nature. According to the experts, positive ions rob us of our good senses and dispositions, while negative ions enhance them, stimulating everything from plant growth to the overall well-being of the human body.

Some of the reactions which improve physical and mental capacity have since become known:

• Negative ions accelerate the oxidative degradation of serotonin whereas positive ions have the opposite action and inactivate the enzymes which break down serotonin. An increase in serotonin level produces:
  a) tachycardia
  b) a rise in blood pressure
  c) bronchialspasm going as far as asthma attack
  d) increased intestinal peristalsis (contractions and
  dilations of the intestines to move the contents onwards)
  e) increased sensitivity to pain
  f) increased aggression
• A decrease in the serotonin level is calming and increases defenses against infection (as proven with influenza the flu)
• Negative ions produce an increase in hemoglobin/oxygen affinity so that the partial oxygen pressure in the blood rises but the partial dioxide pressure decreases. This results in reduced respiratory rate and enhances the metabolism of water-soluble vitamins. In addition, negative ions produce an increase in pH making body fluids more alkaline.

Far Infrared Light

For centuries, scientists have known that plants are dependent upon sunlight for photosynthesis. But, only recently has science recognized the similarities between humans and plants in their dependence upon light.

Today, we know that energy from the sun's rays, photons, controls vital processes in both plants and people. In humans, photons are the catalyst for the production of sugars, fats, and proteins. Photons stimulate the endocrine system, metabolic processes and enzyme reactions as well as activities in the brain.

When this connection is disturbed, disorders follow. For example, when enzymes in the body's cells, which should normally be activated, fail to receive the proper wave lengths of light, they remain dormant. As a result, they cannot start up normal, cellular metabolic reactions. This translates into lower cellular energy, glandular insufficiencies and reduced ability to burn fats and toxins.

Solar energy from the sun covers a broad energy band including infrared, visible light, ultra-violet, x-rays and gamma rays. Only a small amount of these solar rays are visible as colors. The greatest amount of the sun's energy output is in the infrared segment of the spectrum. This band of light is not visible but can be felt as heat.

The infrared segment of the electromagnetic spectrum is divided into three segments by wave frequencies and wave lengths. Wave lengths are measured in microns (mm), which are one millionth of a meter: Near Infrared: 0.76-1.5 mm; Middle: 1.5-5.6 mm; Far: 5.6-1000 mm. A narrow spectrum between 4 to 14 microns has been shown to have particularly beneficial effects on the body.

Among the total spectrum of solar rays coming from the sun, the FIR waves are the safest and the most beneficial. For example, the visible light spectrum, with very short wave lengths, is reflected away from the body. When near (NIR) waves heat organic substances the surface gets hotter than the interior, and the interior gets heated by conduction from the surface. By contrast, far-infrared penetrates deeply with a very uniform warming effect.

Benefits of FIR waves

All humans send and receive FIR waves. The range of infrared waves generated by the body is 3 to 50 microns. The greatest output is around 9.4, which is very close to the resonant frequency of a water molecule. This similarity makes sense since our bodies are almost 70% water.

Any substances with similar resonance can absorb energy from each other easily. Consequently, when you are close to someone, you are both sending and receiving FIR energy. When heated, our planet emits FIR waves at around the 10 micron level as do most organic substances and plants. The FIR waves between 4 to 14 microns, sometimes called Vital Rays, appear to have special regenerative effects on the body.
When any tissue in the body is exposed to FIR waves, whether radiated by sunlight, reflected by specially coated fabrics or ceramic panels, there is a rapid increase in warmth which can shown by thermography. This heat plus the activation of several other response mechanisms stimulates the healing processes. For example, FIR waves?

• increase blood flow by promoting dilation (expansion) of the micro-circulatory system of capillaries.
• reduce muscle spasms as muscle fibers are heated.
• remove toxins from the site receiving FIR waves.
• assist in the reduction of swelling and inflammation by improving lymph flow.
• reduce soreness through direct action on both free nerve endings in tissues and on peripheral nerves.

At the cellular level, researchers have discovered that specific FIR waves lengths:

• stimulate enzyme activity.
• promote the adhesion and osmosis of water molecules across the cellular membrane.
• attract calcium ions to the cellular membrane.

FIR waves reduce acidity

FIR waves, reflected from wraps and blankets to the body, provide concentrated radiant energy, similar to that from the sun. FIR wraps, applied directly to overworked muscles, reduce lactic acid while FIR blankets often provide an overall reduction in general body acidity during sleep.

Medical application FIR technology

One of the reasons FIR has beneficial results in a variety of illnesses is the ability of FIR waves to remove toxins, which are often at the core of many health problems. Since humans are bio-accumulators, numerous toxins, that cannot be removed immediately after entry, are stored in our bodies. For example, when toxic gases such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide or toxic substances such as lead, mercury or chlorine meet large water molecules, they are encapsulated by the clusters of water. Where these toxins are accumulated, blood circulation is blocked and cellular energy is impaired.

However, when a 10 micron FIR wave is applied to these large water molecules, the water begins to vibrate. This vibration reduces the ion bonds of the atoms which are holding together the molecules of water. As the breakdown of the water molecules occurs, encapsulated gases and other toxic materials are released.

Diets and exercise do work to a certain extent, but there are scientific products developed in Japan that can help you get rid of the accumulated acidic toxins more easily and effortlessly. These products work no matter how busy you are, how old you are or how lazy you may be. As with diets and exercises, the results are not overnight; however, the process is the fastest among the methods using the natural process.

The problem is that the acid accumulation in our body is slow and our body adapts to it, so that we do not notice the fact that we are getting sick and old. By the time one feels pain caused by the acid accumulation, the damage is severe. One must start the process of reducing acidic wastes before the pain starts.