Introduction
Sauna bathing has been traditionally used for relaxation and pleasure, especially in Scandinavian countries. Recent research has investigated its potential benefits for heart health, revealing several positive effects on cardiovascular function.
Evidence
- Improved Cardiovascular Function:
- Sauna bathing can enhance endothelial function, reduce arterial stiffness, and lower blood pressure (Nguyen et al., 2004).
- Regular sauna use is associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality and fewer heart-related incidents (Laukkanen et al., 2015).
- Tolerance and Safety in Heart Patients:
- Patients with stable coronary heart disease can safely use saunas, which can improve exercise tolerance and reduce the occurrence of arrhythmias (Luurila, 1992).
- Sauna therapy has been shown to be well tolerated even by patients with chronic heart failure under moderate and supervised conditions (Basford et al., 2009).
- Reduction in Cardiovascular Events:
- Frequent sauna bathing (4-7 times per week) significantly reduces the risk of fatal cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality (Laukkanen et al., 2015).
- Combining sauna use with high cardiorespiratory fitness offers even greater protection against sudden cardiac death (Laukkanen et al., 2018).
- Physiological Benefits:
- Sauna use promotes vasodilation, increases cardiac output, and reduces peripheral resistance, which can be beneficial for overall cardiovascular health (Sandell & Davies, 2023).
- Regular sauna sessions can improve lipid profiles and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to better heart health (Laukkanen et al., 2018).
Conclusion
Sauna bathing is associated with several cardiovascular benefits, including improved endothelial function, reduced blood pressure, and a lower risk of fatal cardiovascular events. It is generally safe for patients with stable heart conditions and can significantly enhance heart health when used regularly and appropriately.