Health advantages backed by science for sauna usage:
Regular sauna use has been linked to a significant reduction in stroke risk, according to a comprehensive study conducted by researchers from several renowned universities. This holistic approach to health has been found to support heart and vascular health, improve blood vessel function, and reduce inflammation, among other benefits.
The study, which included 1,628 men and women aged between 53 and 74 years, found that the more time people spent in the sauna, the lower their stroke risk. Those who sauna bathed four to seven times per week were 61 percent less likely to have a stroke than those who did it once per week. Even moderate sauna use, twice to three times a week, was associated with a 27 percent stroke risk reduction.
Improved vascular function plays a key role in this stroke risk reduction. Heat exposure in saunas causes vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces vascular resistance. This results in lower blood pressure and enhanced arterial compliance, collectively reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, a major stroke risk factor.
Sauna sessions also provide a passive cardio workout, as they increase heart rate and stroke volume, improving cardiac efficiency and output. This strengthens the heart and supports better circulation without physical exertion.
Sauna use has also been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, which is linked to vascular damage and stroke risk. Furthermore, exposure to sauna heat triggers the release of heat shock proteins that help repair and protect cells, potentially guarding against age-related cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases that can contribute to stroke risk.
Beyond stroke risk reduction, regular sauna use offers additional health benefits. It has been associated with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer's, potentially due to improved vascular health affecting brain circulation. Sauna use also alleviates stress, which benefits heart health by reducing stress-related blood pressure spikes and vascular damage. Heat therapy from saunas may boost immune function and enhance longevity through cellular protection mechanisms.
However, it's important to note that saunas can be risky for older people with low blood pressure, and those with unstable angina, chest pain, or who have recently had a heart attack should avoid saunas. To practice sauna safety, don't drink alcohol before sauna bathing, limit your time to 15-20 minutes, drink two to four glasses of water when you get out, never go into a sauna when you're feeling ill, and if you start feeling sick while in a sauna, leave immediately.
Saunas can also help with anxiety, stress, pain, weight loss, circulation, and other health challenges. A 2017 study found that saunas help decrease artery stiffness that contributes to high blood pressure, heart attack risk, and stroke risk.
In summary, regular sauna use supports heart and vascular health by improving blood vessel function, lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and providing a mild cardiovascular workout. These effects synergistically lower stroke risk while also offering brain health and longevity benefits, making sauna bathing a scientifically supported, holistic approach to reducing stroke and cardiovascular disease risk.
- The study suggests that regular sauna use could potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases like stroke by 61% for those who sauna bathe four to seven times a week, and by 27% for moderate users, twice to three times a week.
- Sauna use has been found to support cardiovascular health, as it increases heart rate and stroke volume, offering a passive cardio workout and improving cardiac efficiency and output.
- The study also points out that sauna sessions can alleviate mental health concerns, such as stress and anxiety, by reducing stress-related blood pressure spikes and vascular damage.
- Furthermore, therapies and treatments like CBD, often used for mental health and fitness-and-exercise related issues, could potentially complement the benefits of sauna use, as they aim to support overall health and wellness.
- Interestingly, sports enthusiasts might find that sauna use can aid sports recovery, as it enhances circulation and eases muscle tension, thereby contributing to better performance and lower risk of injuries. However, sports-betting, while popular among athletes, is not directly related to sauna use or health benefits.
