Are Saunas Good for You? What You Need to Know

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  Trying to decide if a home sauna is right for you? Many health benefits are linked to their regular use. And there’s no doubt having one in your home increases the likelihood that you’ll use it. But before you decide, here’s what you need to know.

The Benefits

Generally considered safe for those with good health overall, saunas have been linked to many health benefits.

Healthy Heart

A short time in the sauna is enough to increase your pulse by 30% or more, nearly doubling the blood your heart can pump per minute. There’s also evidence to suggest the associated improved cardiovascular function can help open arteries clogged with plaque and lower blood pressure.

Recognized by the American College of Cardiology, some evidence indicates spending more than 19 minutes of sauna bathing could increase your protection against cardiovascular problems by 50% or more.

Brain Health

Studies on men who used saunas between 4-7 times/week showed significantly reduced rates of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Compared to those who sauna bathed once per week, there was a 65% reduction in Alzheimer’s cases and a 66% reduction in instances of dementia.

Additionally, daily use was linked to a 77% reduction in the likelihood of developing a psychotic disorder compared to study participants who only used a sauna once per week.

Protective Against Cancer

While more research is needed, a study published by the Annal of Oncology suggested raising the body’s temperature to between 104-111 degrees Fahrenheit may help shrink tumors and help kill cancer cells. When used in combination with other cancer treatments, saunas may be able to improve response rates by as much as 13%.

Physical Fitness

The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport published a 2007 study exploring whether sauna baths after hard workouts could increase performance and reduce recovery time. It was determined that regular sauna bathing after exercise could increase endurance by up to 32% under the studied parameters. And, the body’s response to the heat stress experienced through home sauna use is linked to the improved repair of cell damage. This is why people are often looking for Dundalk Leisurecraft outdoor saunas for sale that ensure individuals get the best benefits in terms of their fitness. Additionally, these constructions can help to boost the body’s immune system, which helps individuals recover from various diseases or illnesses quickly.

The physical fitness benefits of sauna use aren’t limited to the athletically inclined. In another study, some experts concluded regular sauna use could become an aerobic exercise substitute for people with disability or chronic illnesses. Imagine the benefits you could experience from having an easily accessible sauna in your home to help you reach your fitness goals.

Reduced Pain and Inflammation

Long associated with increasing relaxation, saunas are often used to reduce pain. A 2011 study on women with fibromyalgia found sauna bathing helped reduce symptoms associated with pain and inflammation. If you experience chronic pain, a home sauna may be an effective treatment option under the guidance of your trained doctor.

The Risks

Here are some important things to take into account if you want to sauna bathe.

Stay Hydrated

Saunas are designed to make you sweat, we know that. But if you’re not drinking enough water before and after using a sauna it can become a danger to your health. When you’re alone at home, you don’t have any nearby professionals to check on your well-being.

You must be vigilant to make sure your home sauna experience stays safe. If you feel any of the following symptoms, you should step out and rehydrate immediately:

• Extreme thirst
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Headache

When dehydration is severe, you can experience many complications:

• Hypovolemic shock
• Unconsciousness
• Kidney failure
• Low blood pressure
• Coma
• Seizures
• Heat exhaustion or heat stroke

You must remember to drink plenty of liquids after any sauna session. In case of an emergency, it’s also wise to have a nearby phone to call for help.

Reduced Fertility

In a research study from 2018, sperm production in men was negatively impacted after two sauna sessions/week for 3 months. While reversible, the implications of sauna use and fertility are not yet fully understood. Regular sauna use should not be considered a reliable birth control measure. If you’re trying to start a family, talk to your doctor about whether your sauna use will impede your efforts.

Some Circumstances Can Make Sauna Use Unsafe

There’s evidence to suggest sauna use isn’t compatible with some circumstances and health conditions. Get your doctor’s advice before using one if any of the below apply to you:

• Heart disease
• Epilepsy
• Asthma or another breathing condition
• Pregnancy
• high/low blood pressure
• Alcohol in your system
• Tranquilizers, stimulants, or other mind-altering substances
• Over the age of 65
• 7 years old or younger

Is a Sauna Right for You?

Saunas have a long history of being used to promote health and wellness. While science continues to study the benefits of their use, preliminary studies show promise. So, if you want a long healthy life, consider how a home sauna can become part of your daily health routine.

Click the links below for any posts you have missed:

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What You Need to Know About CoolSculpting

How to Design An Amazing Dressing Room at Home

3 Signs Your Heat Pump Needs Service

Building vs. Buying Your Dream Home: Which One Should You Choose?

Is a High Gloss Kitchen Convenient? Shiny Kitchen Cabinets Pros and Cons

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Thanks for stopping by!  Have a wonderful day/night depending on where you are in the world!  Go with God and remember to be kind to one another!

Toodles,