Are infrared saunas good
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Infrared saunas provide some health benefits but are notably different from traditional saunas. and guest addressed the utility of infrared saunas in a conversation where they outlined several points:
- Infrared saunas typically don't exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas studies on sauna benefits often involve temperatures around 174 degrees Fahrenheit (1).
- For infrared saunas to confer benefits similar to those seen in hotter saunas, users might need to stay in longer, as reported in studies from Japan (1).
The key benefits commonly associated with sauna use include:
- Exposure to heat and the resulting heat stress mimic the effects of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, with physiological benefits like elevated heart rate during the activity and improved blood pressure and resting heart rate post-activity (2).
- Sauna sessions can lead to the release of heat shock proteins, which can repair misfolded proteins, and help with injury recovery and mood regulation (2).
However, caution is advised for certain groups, such as those who've recently had a heart attack, have uncommon heart conditions, or are pregnant. They should consult a physician before using saunas. Elderly individuals and those prone to low blood pressure should also take precautions (2).
Moreover, tends to prefer stronger heat stimuli that are often not achieved in infrared saunas. He suggests that the benefits of infrared light, including wound healing and potentially increasing testosterone, are distinct from the benefits associated with higher-temperature saunas (3).
It is emphasized that sauna use is not a substitute for exercise but can complement a healthy lifestyle and especially be a convenient option for those unable to perform conventional exercise due to disability or sedentarity (2).
For a more comprehensive understanding, it is important to explore individual studies, as the data and recommendations may vary based on different research methods and findings.
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