If you are like the millions of Americans who try repeatedly to quit smoking or who constantly battle the scale, then you are all too familiar with the feelings of self-disappointment and frustration associated with nicotine and food addiction. Even the most well-intentioned and dedicated individuals can have a difficult time shaking unhealthy habits. But now there is hope for those who struggle with these painful issues: cold laser therapy, a breakthrough treatment that may be able to help you say goodbye to cigarette and food cravings for good.

What is Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold laser therapy, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a safe, painless, non-invasive, drug-free treatment that is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, chronic pain, skin damage, injuries, wounds and fractures. Cold laser therapy is quickly gaining popularity as an accepted medical therapy. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and muscle joint pain and stiffness.

While the FDA has not yet approved cold laser therapy for the treatment of smoking cessation and weight loss, studies show great promise in its effectiveness for treating these problems. In Canada and Europe, former smokers have experienced significant success with cold laser therapy for more than 20 years, and up to 80% of cold laser therapy clients reach their ideal weights.

Laser Health is one of 300 clinics across the United States participating in FDA-sponsored clinical research trials on the use of cold laser therapy for smoking cessation and weight loss. Based in Millennium Medical in St. Petersburg, we at Laser Health also offer programs for pain management, stress management and skin disorder and aging treatments.

How does Cold Laser Therapy Work?

Cold laser therapy combines Chinese acupuncture methods with advanced laser technology. Specific wavelengths of light are used to give accurately measured doses of energy to the appropriate treatment sites. This energy is in the form of non-thermal photons of light, meaning that it does not create high heat. Unlike surgical lasers, this process does not damage living tissue, but rather gives positive stimulation on a cellular level.

For most people, cold laser therapy is a passive event. It requires no creams, gels or ointments, and no pulsating shocks are felt as in certain forms of electric stimulation. Treatment may last from two to 20 minutes depending on the condition, and 75 to 80% of patients notice immediate improvements. It was Albert Einstein who proposed the theory for the creation of laser light in the early 1900s. The use of light as a treatment is not a new concept. It is scientifically proven that light transmitted into the blood through laser therapy has a positive effect throughout the body. Laser supplies vital oxygen and energy to every cell.

Would You Like to Make This the Last Time You Quit Smoking?

Smokers who want to kick the habit typically face two obstacles: one, nicotine withdrawal symptoms; and two, the feeling of failure when trying to quit again simply doesn't work. The good news is that you can permanently break your nicotine addiction through Laser Health's clinical research trials using cold laser therapy.

Working under the supervision of a medical director, certified laser technicians treat the pain of nicotine withdrawal and cravings while easing the urge to smoke. Treatments last from 30 minutes to an hour, and lasers are used on specific points of the body, including the hands, nose and ears. These points release endorphins and have a calming effect on the central nervous system, which helps to eliminate nicotine cravings.

Testimonial: "I smoked two packs a day for over 30 years, and laser therapy stopped my cravings," says Tim C., a participant in the research trial at Laser Health. "I had laser treatment and a follow-up booster treatment - and I haven't smoked since August 2005. It was the easiest thing I've tried!"

In addition to laser therapy, Laser Health also helps you learn behavior modification techniques to help you stay smoke-free during your daily routine. Nutritional supplements are often recommended to ease the nicotine withdrawal process, and booster treatments are available if needed.

Stop Your Struggle with Chronic Weight Gain

Are you tired of losing weight only to gain it back a few weeks later? You can permanently say goodbye to yo-yo dieting, food addiction and improper nutrition with Laser Health's comprehensive Weight Loss Program and clinical research trial using cold laser therapy.

Certified laser technicians treat specific points of the body to help raise the metabolic rate, suppress the appetite and eliminate cravings for sweet and salty foods, allowing you to feel satisfied while eating proper amounts and types of food. The goal of this Weight Loss Program is to safely accelerate fat loss while maintaining and enhancing lean muscle mass until the desired body composition is reached.

Testimonial: "After undergoing laser treatment, I'm not hungry and I have a lot more energy," says Kristi K., a Laser Health patient. "Since December 2005, I've lost 12 pounds of fat and gained five pounds of muscle. I have more muscle now than I ever had before."

Cold laser therapy is designed to complement a holistic weight loss program, not replace good nutrition or exercise. You will learn how to establish realistic weight loss goals and integrate healthy eating and exercise habits into your lifestyle. In addition, you will receive a personalized body analysis, nutritional counseling and a behavior modification CD to help you stay motivated.

For Your Best Health, Try Cold Laser Therapy

A new beginning free of smoking and chronic weight gain can be yours at Laser Health. With our non-invasive cold laser therapy treatments you can get the results you've always dreamed of: a future free of addiction and a renewed self-confidence.

For more information on cold laser therapy, please contact Lorri Franckle at 727-341-1200, visit Laser Health on the Web at www.laserhealthusa.com or stop by Millennium Medical to see for yourself.