The infrared sauna, like many other emerging wellness trends, makes a long range of health claims, from increased circulation and weight loss to pain relief and the elimination of toxins from the body.
Even some famous people, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga, and Cindy Crawford, support it.
But as with so many health fads, if something sounds too good to be true, it's worth doing your research to see how trustworthy all those striking promises are.
What’s happening to your body when you’re in an infrared sauna?
Regardless of how a sauna is heated, a person's body will react by raising their heart rate, widening their blood vessels, and increasing their sweating. There is an increase in blood circulation when this occurs.
The body's response to light to moderate exercise is quite comparable to this reaction. The precise response of the body will also depend on how long you spend in the sauna. The heart rate has been reported to rise to between 100 and 150 beats per minute. The physical reactions mentioned above frequently have positive health effects on their own.
Infrared saunas can deliver waves of a particular heat and light that help cure deep tissue by penetrating deeper into the body. As long as you can open your pores and perspire, you should be able to maintain temperature balance because although your skin temperature rises, your core temperature does not rise as much.
What type of individual and what conditions of health would gain the most from this, and why?
Numerous research have examined the use of infrared saunas in the management of chronic health issues. These include enhancing cardiac health by lowering blood pressure and controlling chronic heart failure, easing disease pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis, by reducing muscle soreness and enhancing joint movement, and lowering stress levels by allegedly encouraging relaxation and enhancing feelings of well-being through improved circulation.
Infrared saunas may be useful when combined with healthy dietary intake, sleep, and massage, according to studies on athletes who have proven that heat promotes speedier healing. According to one study, this might be a treatment option for those with chronic, difficult-to-treat pain. Similarly, there is a safer alternative for those who enjoy the heat of tanning beds but wish to stay away from the cancer-causing UV radiation.
Who should avoid using infrared sauna?
The majority of people appear to be safe using saunas. However, before using one, people with cardiovascular illness, those who have had a heart attack, and those who have low blood pressure should consult their doctor.
Saunas may make contact dermatitis symptoms worse for those who have it. Likewise, people with kidney problems should avoid saunas due to the danger of dehydration (caused by excessive perspiration). Due to the high temperature utilized in saunas, some people may also experience nausea and dizziness. Finally, women who are expecting should talk to their doctor before utilizing a sauna.
A burn might not be noticed or the hot feeling might hurt someone who has neuropathy in their hands or feet. Elderly people should be aware that this type of dry heat increases the danger of dehydration. If you are prone to fainting or overheating, use with caution.
The risks seem to be minimal. Keep the sessions brief at initially and lengthen them if you can handle them. This might not be the preferred experience for folks who frequently have hot flushes. While there are advantages to circulation and health, excessive heat is detrimental to immune system and cardiovascular system health. People with existing medical issues should speak to their doctor.
The usage of an infrared sauna is often beneficial for those who cannot endure the high warmth of a traditional sauna. In response, being able to take advantage of the warmth and relaxation the sauna offers has a favorable impact on other chronic health conditions.
The use of infrared heat is one more weapon in the arsenal in the fight against chronic pain without the use of narcotics, helping to lessen reliance on medication. This treatment can improve mobility, range of motion, pain reduction, and quality of life when combined with other methods.
Although there are numerous web articles praising the benefits of infrared saunas, you should first talk to your doctor about utilizing these appliances.
If you choose to use infrared sauna therapy, keep in mind to choose manufacturers that adheres to industry standards. Additionally, you should only use sanitary, well-maintained facilities.