Saunas have been used for centuries and are known for their numerous health benefits. Here are ten main sauna health benefits, along with references to studies supporting each claim:
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Regular sauna use has been associated with improved cardiovascular function, including lower blood pressure and improved endothelial function. (Kihara et al., 2004)
Enhanced Detoxification
Sweating in a sauna helps eliminate toxins from the body, such as heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, through increased circulation and perspiration. (Genuis et al., 2012)
Muscle Recovery And Performance
Saunas have been shown to aid in muscle recovery and improve athletic performance by reducing muscle inflammation, enhancing blood flow, and relieving muscle soreness. (Leppaluoto et al., 2005)
Boosted Immune System
Saunas can stimulate the production of white blood cells, enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. (Crinnion, 2011)
Improved Cognitive Function
Regular sauna bathing has been linked to enhanced brain health, including better memory, reduced risk of dementia, and improved cognitive performance. (Hannuksela and Ellahham, 2001)
Improved Lung Function
Regular sauna use has shown positive effects on respiratory health, including increased lung capacity and improved symptoms in individuals with asthma and chronic bronchitis. (Biro et al., 2013)
Enhanced Skin Health
Saunas promote healthy skin by increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface, opening up pores, and promoting collagen production, resulting in improved skin tone and a more youthful appearance. (Proksch et al., 2002)
Weight Management
Sauna use can contribute to weight loss by increasing calorie expenditure, improving metabolism, and supporting fat loss. However, it should be noted that saunas alone are not a substitute for regular exercise and a healthy diet. (Scoon et al., 2007)
Increased Human Growth Hormone (HGH) Levels
Human growth hormone is an essential hormone that plays a crucial role in growth, metabolism, and tissue repair. Sauna use has been suggested to stimulate the production and release of HGH in the body. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism observed that regular sauna sessions increased growth hormone levels in participants (Penttilä et al., 1989).
Stress Reduction
Sauna bathing promotes relaxation and stress relief, leading to a decrease in stress-related symptoms and an improved sense of well-being. (Dellagrana et al., 2020)
Improved Sleep
Saunas can have a positive impact on sleep quality and duration. The heat exposure during sauna sessions helps to relax the body and induce a state of calmness, which can aid in falling asleep faster and experiencing deeper, more restful sleep. A study conducted on older adults found that regular sauna use in the evening resulted in improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia symptoms (Laukkanen et al., 2018).