10 significant health benefits of infrared saunas
Infrared saunas have become popular wellness centers worldwide. Infrared saunas use infrared panels to raise the body temperature and support one’s overall health. Infrared heat is gentle on the body and can operate at lower temperatures while still providing therapeutic benefits, unlike conventional saunas. The heat can also penetrate more deeply into the skin than the heat of a traditional sauna resulting in more sweat. Listed below are some of the benefits of using an infrared sauna.
Good for your heart
Regular infrared sauna sessions are good for long-term heart health as they can reduce blood pressure. When you lounge in infrared heat, your body’s blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow without causing adverse effects such as high blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that a thirty-minute infrared sauna session improved blood pressure.
Relieves muscle aches and joint pain
Another excellent health benefit of an infrared sauna is that it can reduce muscle aches following physical activity and chronic joint pain. According to a 2015 study, spending thirty minutes in a far-infrared sauna after a strenuous workout helped improve neuromuscular recovery. Infrared heat therapy from a sauna can also be used as an alternative to prescribed pain treatment options. The heat from the sauna can provide relief from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other ongoing pain discomforts. Another study found that infrared sauna significantly benefits people with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Flushes out toxins
Infrared saunas make your body sweat which is a highly effective way of eliminating toxins. As infrared heat stimulates the sweat gland, it helps release the built-up toxins in the body, including heavy metals and chemicals. Infrared saunas are far more effective in toxin removal than conventional saunas.
Improved skin tone
Infrared sauna therapy can improve your skin tone minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The increased blood circulation detoxifies the body and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin. These nutrients are essential for collagen production to improve skin tone and elasticity and reduce fine lines. By making infrared sauna therapy a part of your lifestyle, you can significantly improve your skin’s appearance and achieve an overall brighter complexion.
Reduces stress and fatigue
People using infrared saunas often feel relaxed and rejuvenated after spending just a few minutes in the warm, quiet chamber. When the body feels warm and relaxed, it helps reduce stress hormones such as cortisol while increasing mood-enhancing hormones that include serotonin and dopamine. Infrared sauna therapy is also useful for those with chronic fatigue. In a study, fatigue levels significantly decreased after spending 15 minutes in a far-infrared sauna. The infrared heat puts the body in the parasympathetic or stress state allowing the body to relax and heal.
Wound healing
Cuts, scrapes, and bruising are often naturally healed by the body as time passes. Infrared sauna therapy can speed up the wound-healing process. The heat from the sauna increases tissue growth and promotes cell regeneration.
Boost immunity
During an infrared sauna session, the body’s core temperature increases, inducing artificial fever, which is an excellent way to fight harmful bacteria or viruses that have infected the body. This intense sweating can help strengthen the immune system and increase overall health.
Reduces the appearance of cellulite
Infrared sauna sessions can also be beneficial in reducing cellulite, particularly in women. Cellulite refers to the dimpled, orange peel-textured skin found in the thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. Exposure to infrared heat encourages the body to get rid of fat and promotes collagen production necessary for reducing the accumulation of cellulite.
Improves sensitivity to insulin
According to a study, far-infrared treatments may be associated with improved quality of life in people with Type 2 diabetes. Infrared heat from the sauna can strongly impact insulin and blood glucose levels. People with diabetes respond favorably to warm and comfortable therapeutic healing. It helps decrease toxins and increases blood circulation, all of which are related to a spike in blood sugar levels.
Benefits the brain
The use of a sauna boosts the synthesis of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a substance that encourages the development of new brain cells and enhances cognition and memory. Additionally, frequent sauna use greatly lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The advantages of far-infrared saunas are frequently praised by health professionals, doctors, and those involved in the sauna sector. Infrared sauna sessions are worth trying out as they provide an enjoyable way to relax and unwind and help you achieve your wellness goals. While there are no adverse side effects, this therapy is not recommended for pregnant women, young children, and people with certain medical conditions.