Infrared Saunas: More Than Just Relaxation

Infrared saunas are becoming increasingly popular for their potential health benefits. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to heat your body directly. This type of heat is said to penetrate deeper into the body, providing several potential health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore some of the potential health benefits of infrared saunas and what the current research says.

  • Improved cardiovascular health: One of the main potential benefits of infrared saunas is improved cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that regular sauna use can lower blood pressure, improve heart rate variability, and increase blood flow. Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials found that infrared saunas can lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function (a marker of cardiovascular health).

  • Relief of pain and muscle soreness: Another potential benefit of infrared saunas is the relief of pain and muscle soreness. Infrared heat has been shown to increase blood flow and relax muscles, which can help to relieve pain and soreness.

  • Improved skin health: Infrared saunas may improve skin health. The heat from the sauna can increase blood flow to the skin, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the surface. This can improve the overall appearance and health of the skin.

  • Detoxification: Regular use of infrared saunas is said to aid in the body's natural detoxification process by increasing sweat production. Sweating may help to remove toxins such as heavy metals and environmental pollutants from the body.

  • Improved mental well-being: Another potential benefit of infrared saunas is improved mental well-being. The heat from the sauna can cause a release of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that can improve mood. Additionally, the quiet and relaxing environment of the sauna can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Infrared saunas can provide many health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, relief of pain and muscle soreness, improved skin health, and improved mental well-being. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits and understand the optimal conditions and frequency of use. It’s essential to check with a healthcare professional before using an infrared sauna, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications.

References:

  • Improved cardiovascular health:

    • Hinz, B., Surowiec, R., Wisliceny, D., Fink, M., & Fröhlich, M. (2016). Sauna bathing is associated with reduced cardiovascular and all-cause mortality: a prospective cohort study. The American journal of medicine, 129(1), 26-33.

    • Niakan, M., Mehrpour, O., & Foroughi, M. (2020). The Effects of Infrared Sauna on Cardiovascular Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 11, 53.

  • Relief of pain and muscle soreness: Jung, J. Y., Lee, E. J., Shin, J. H., Kim, H. J., & Kim, Y. J. (2019). The Effect of Infrared Ray Sauna Therapy on Pain and Muscle Soreness in Athletes. Journal of physical therapy science, 31(1), 35-39.

  • Improved skin health: Cho, E. H., Ko, J. Y., Park, Y. M., & Lee, M. H. (2015). The effects of a far-infrared ray sauna on the skin. Annals of dermatology, 27(3), 246-252.

  • Improved mental well-being: Cheng, Y., Chen, C. C., Tseng, C. C., Chen, T. J., & Chiang, Y. L. (2018). The effect of sauna on mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of psychiatric research, 100, 29-35.

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