Health Benefits of Saunas: Fact or Fiction?

There are many claims about the health benefits of saunas. Weight loss, ridding the body of toxins, lowering cholesterol, relieving arthritis pain, and treating respiratory problems such as bronchitis and laryngitis are all supposed outcomes. Some of these claims are exaggerated, but others may have a sound scientific foundation. Let's take a closer look.

Losing Weight

There are many weight loss programs that suggest saunas are an effective way to lose weight. It is true that when you are in a sauna your heart rate increases and the body works to cool itself. An estimated 300 to 500 calories can be burned during a half-hour session. The heart rate increases, causing calories to be burned. But unlike traditional exercises, the heart is the only muscle being exerted. Building and toning muscles is more important for weight loss than exerting the heart. The bottom line is: If you want to lose weight, do some form of physical exercise. A sauna afterwards is a bonus, but it will not help much in your weight loss program.

Toxins

The claim that saunas rid the body of toxins is made by many sauna manufacturers and retailers, and it is also a commonly held belief among enthusiasts. The fact is there is no scientific evidence that toxins such as heavy metals (e.g. lead and mercury) or other such toxins are eliminated from the body by sauna use. These kinds of claims are heard more in relation to infrared types than traditional models. Either way, no evidence exists to support these claims.

Lowering Cholesterol

This is another dubious claim put forth by some retailers. Taking regular saunas is supposed to reduce cholesterol without any change in the diet. Again, no scientific evidence supports the claim.

True Benefits

After looking at some of the quackery associated with saunas one might be tempted to write off any claims of therapeutic value. Yet there are real benefits that can be part of a regular health regime.

Physical Effects

During a sauna the heart rate increases and the blood vessels dilate to accommodate the increased blood flow. Blood flow to the skin increases, and heavy sweating is induced. The nasal passages open, allowing the sinuses to drain.

The heat experienced in saunas have temporary health benefits. Arthritic and rheumatic patients feel less pain and experience greater joint mobility, but this will pass once the sauna is finished. Athletes can benefit by taking one before working out because the heat causes joints and muscles to be more flexible.

Relaxation is probably the greatest health benefit of this type of bathing. Our modern lives are filled with stress that accumulates and can be the root of many health problems. Saunas are relaxing and calming and provide a great way to unwind at the end of the day. Taking one before bed promotes the deep sleep that is necessary for the body to recover and rejuvenate.

People with health problems should consult their doctors before using saunas, but for most it is safe and beneficial when done in moderation.

For more information about how to build a home sauna and how it can provide a simple and enjoyable way to improve your overall health visit http://www.the-home-sauna-center.com