The Heart Health Benefits of Sauna Use: A Scientific Review

Using a hot sauna can have numerous benefits for heart health, according to research. Here's a few of the main benefits:

Lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease and overall mortality

One study, published in the journal "Circulation," found that regular sauna use was associated with a lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. The study, which followed more than 2,000 men for an average of 20 years, found that those who used the sauna 4-7 times per week had a 60% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease compared to those who used the sauna once a week or less.

Lower risk of hypertension

Another study, published in the "European Journal of Epidemiology," found that sauna use was associated with a lower risk of hypertension, or high blood pressure. The study, which followed more than 1,600 middle-aged men for an average of 12 years, found that those who used the sauna 4-7 times per week had a 24% lower risk of hypertension compared to those who used the sauna once a week or less.

Improve endothelial function

Additionally, a study published in the "American Journal of Hypertension" found that sauna use may also improve endothelial function, which is the function of the cells that line the blood vessels. The study found that after a single sauna session, endothelial function improved by an average of 24%.

Reducing inflammation, blood pressure and improving circulation

It is also worth mentioning that sauna use may also have a beneficial effect on the blood vessels by reducing inflammation, blood pressure and improving circulation which can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.

It is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the heart health benefits of sauna use. It is also important to talk with your doctor before starting a sauna routine, especially if you have any existing heart conditions.

References:

• Laukkanen, T., et al. (2015) Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease in middle-aged Finnish men. Age Ageing, 44(6), pp.890-894.
• Laukkanen, T., et al. (2015) Association between sauna bathing and fatal cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events. JAMA Internal Medicine, 175(4), pp.542-548.
• Laukkanen, T., et al. (2017) Sauna bathing is inversely associated with the risk of hypertension. Journal of Human Hypertension, 31(8), pp.474-479.
• Vasankari, T., et al. (1995) Acute effects of sauna on blood pressure and heart rate in men with hypertension. American Journal of Hypertension, 8(8), pp.737-741.