The use of saunas has been around for centuries, and for good reason.
Regular sauna use can have a multitude of health benefits, from
improving circulation to reducing the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.
In addition, saunas can also help to reduce stress levels, increase
heart rate variability, and improve overall well-being. In this article,
we will explore four of the many benefits of using a sauna and how it can
positively impact your health.
1. Preventing The Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Studies have been conducted to understand the potential health benefits of sauna use. One of the most notable studies was conducted by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland in collaboration with the University of Bristol in the U.K. This study, published in 2016, showed that the more saunas men took per week, the lower their risk of dementia (women weren’t included in the study). In this study, men were between the ages of 42 and 60 and were followed for almost 21 years to determine their incidences of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia, among other things. They determined that men who used a sauna four to seven times per week were 66 percent less likely to develop dementia and 65 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Further, men who used a sauna only once per week were 22 percent less likely to develop dementia and 20 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men who didn’t use it at all.
Source: Jari Antero Laukkanen et al, “Sauna bathing is
inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in
middle-aged Finnish men.” Age & Aging, March 1, 2017, doi:
10.1093/ageing/afw21
2. Reducing Inflammation
Recently, studies have shown that sauna bathing can also be used to reduce inflammation in the body. Sauna therapy has been found to be effective in reducing inflammation due to its ability to increase circulation and stimulate the release of anti-inflammatory hormones.
Sauna therapy has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune diseases. Studies have also suggested that sauna therapy may help reduce inflammation caused by exercise-induced muscle damage. Additionally, sauna therapy may help reduce inflammation associated with chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.
3. Detoxifying Your Body
A sauna is a great way to relax and detoxify your body. The high
temperatures help your body get rid of toxins and impurities, making it
an ideal choice for those looking to improve their overall health.
4. Improving Circulation
The University of Eastern Finland conducted a study that looked at the long-term effects of sauna use on cardiovascular health. They found that regular sauna use was associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases. Overall, these studies suggest that there may be some potential health benefits associated with regular sauna use, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Risks Of Sauna Use
Saunas are a great way to relax and unwind, but it is important to be
aware of the health risks associated with using them. While saunas can
provide many benefits, such as improved circulation and relaxation, they
can also cause dehydration, overheating, and other health issues. It is
important to understand the potential risks before using a sauna, so
that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is right
for you. It’s always a good idea to have a conversation with your
physician before using a sauna, especially if you have health concerns.
How Hot - How Long?
To get the most out of your sauna experience, it is important to know
how to use it properly. Generally speaking, you should stay in the sauna
for 10-15 minutes at a temperature between 150-200 Fahrenheit
(70-72°C). During this time, you should drink plenty of water and take
breaks if needed. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy all the
benefits that a sauna has to offer!
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