Health Benefits of Sauna Usage: Insights from Finnish Research
Introduction to Sauna Bathing
In a recent study, Finnish researchers explored the health benefits associated with sauna use. For thousands of years, sauna bathing has been an integral part of Finnish culture, valued for both relaxation and its potential health advantages. Despite this long history, the evidence regarding the health benefits of sauna use has been inconsistent. To address this research gap, scientists conducted a comprehensive literature review, which was published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
Research Methodology
The researchers examined the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for observational studies and clinical trials focused on traditional Finnish saunas, which are the most studied type. Their search encompassed all available data from the inception of these databases up to February 24, 2018. Key search terms included “sauna bath,” “Finnish,” “cardiovascular disease,” “dementia,” and “depression.” The review was limited to studies published in English and involving adult participants.
Key Findings on Sauna Health Benefits
The study revealed several important findings regarding the health impacts of sauna bathing:
1. Blood Pressure Reduction
Sauna bathing appears to positively influence blood pressure levels. However, evidence supporting long-term reductions in elevated blood pressure remains limited.
2. Decreased Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death
Preliminary studies indicate that regular sauna use may lower the risk of sudden cardiac death and stroke.
3. Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Research indicated that men who utilized a sauna four to seven times weekly had a 66% lower risk of dementia and a 65% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Improvement in Respiratory Conditions
Findings suggest that sauna bathing can enhance lung function, including lung capacity and volume. Additionally, it may reduce the incidence of the common cold and alleviate respiratory diseases such as asthma and pneumonia.
5. Reduction in Other Health Issues
The review also linked sauna bathing to improvements in or a reduced risk of conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, headache disorders, and psychosis.
Limitations of the Study
The researchers acknowledged certain limitations in their review. Notably, the studies analyzed produced mixed outcomes, and most lacked a control group of participants who did not engage in sauna use. Furthermore, many of the studies were conducted several decades ago.
Conclusion: General Health Benefits of Sauna Use
The overarching conclusion from this study is that sauna bathing generally benefits health. Nevertheless, more rigorous research is needed to establish definitive causal relationships between sauna use and specific health conditions.
Author Information
Written by Raymond Quan, MASc, MBA
Reference: Laukkanen et al. “Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence.” Mayo Clin Proc. August 2018; 93(8):1111-1121.