Sitting in a sauna may not seem like a heart-healthy activity, but new research from Finland indicates that doing so not only improves your heart health, but also increases your life expectancy. That’s right – a leisurely activity that requires zero physical effort could be the key to living longer and avoiding heart problems.
The Finnish Sauna Study
In Finland, where saunas have been a part of the culture for hundreds of years, researchers at the University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, set out to study the health impact of regular sauna use. Their analysis included over 2,300 men aged 42 to 60 who were observed for a period of over 20 years.
The results were impressive: men who used a sauna two or three times a week had a 22% lower risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) than their counterparts who only had one sauna session per week. Moreover, men who enjoyed four to seven sauna sessions weekly reduced their risk of SCD by a staggering 63% during the two decades of the study.
Sauna Use and Heart Health
Not only did the study find a reduced risk of SCD among regular sauna users, but it also discovered other heart health benefits. The overall risk of death from any kind of heart problem was 27% lower for those who had sauna sessions two or three times a week. And those who used a sauna four to seven times per week saw that risk drop by 50%.
Additionally, during the 20 years of the study, using a sauna two or three times a week decreased the risk of death from any cause by 24%. Sweating it out in a sauna four to seven times a week reduced the chances of death by an impressive 40%.
While the specific reasons for these positive health effects are not yet clear, researchers believe there are multiple factors possibly involved, including increased blood flow due to the heat, relaxation and relief of stress, or even the simple act of taking time for oneself to unwind and socialize with others in a sauna setting.
Sauna Safety
Before you rush off to the nearest sauna, keep in mind that saunas are not suitable for everyone, and certain safety precautions should be taken:
- Consult your doctor: Speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are pregnant. Some conditions may worsen with sauna use.
- Choose the right temperature: The recommended temperature for a sauna is between 150°F and 195°F. Make sure you start at a lower temperature and gradually increase it to your comfort level.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure you drink water before, during, and after your sauna session to replenish the fluids lost through sweat. Dehydration can be dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.
- Know your limits: If you start to feel lightheaded, dizzy, or otherwise unwell during your sauna session, exit the sauna immediately. Overdoing it can have negative consequences on your health.
- Cool down afterwards: Allow your body to gradually return to its normal temperature after your sauna session by taking a cool shower or simply sitting and relaxing.
The Bottom Line
While the surprising results from the Finnish study are exciting, sauna use should not be considered a replacement for other heart-healthy habits, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques. However, incorporating saunas into your wellness routine could potentially provide some impressive health benefits and give your heart – and your overall well-being – a much-needed boost.
