The Heat Is On

The Finland study on sauna use for the reduction of sudden cardiac death is an important research project that has gained significant attention in recent years. The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Eastern Finland, led by Dr. Jari Laukkanen, and it was published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015.

The objective of this longitudinal study was to investigate the potential association between sauna bathing and the risk of sudden cardiac death, as well as fatal cardiovascular events in the general Finnish population. Finland was chosen as the location for the study because saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture, with an estimated 2 million saunas in a country of around 5.5 million people.

Here are some key details and findings from the study:

Study Participants: The study followed a total of 2,315 middle-aged men (aged 42-60 years) from eastern Finland. These participants were selected based on their self-reported weekly sauna bathing habits.

Study Design: The researchers conducted a prospective cohort study, meaning they observed the participants over time to identify any associations between sauna use and sudden cardiac death.

Sauna Habits: The participants were categorized into three groups based on their weekly sauna habits:

1. Frequent sauna use: Participants who used the sauna 4-7 times per week.
2. Moderate sauna use: Participants who used the sauna 2-3 times per week.
3. Infrequent sauna use: Participants who used the sauna only once a week.

Duration of Follow-up: The participants were followed for an average of 20.7 years, during which the researchers monitored the incidence of sudden cardiac death and fatal cardiovascular events.

Study Findings: The study found that frequent sauna bathing was associated with a significantly lower risk of sudden cardiac death, fatal coronary heart disease, fatal cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. The risk reduction was more pronounced with higher frequency and longer duration of sauna use. Participants who used the sauna 4-7 times per week experienced the greatest benefits.

Potential Mechanisms: The exact mechanisms through which sauna use exerts its cardiovascular benefits are not fully understood, but the researchers proposed several potential explanations. Sauna bathing leads to increased heart rate and dilation of blood vessels, which may improve cardiovascular function. Additionally, the heat stress from sauna use can trigger the release of heat shock proteins, which have been shown to have protective effects on the cardiovascular system.

It’s important to note that this study is observational in nature, and while it suggests an association between frequent sauna use and a reduced risk of sudden cardiac death, it cannot establish a cause-and-effect relationship. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, would be needed to confirm and better understand the potential cardioprotective effects of sauna use.

Nevertheless, the findings of the Finland study have sparked interest in the health benefits of saunas and have contributed to the growing body of evidence supporting the positive effects of regular sauna bathing on cardiovascular health. 

If that is not enough to get your attention do more research.

There are so many amazing benefits of sauna that may interest you!

Let’s explore!

1. Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Saunas are known for their relaxing effects. The heat promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which can reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.

2. Improved Circulation: The high temperatures in a sauna cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow throughout the body. This improved circulation can benefit various organs and muscles.

3. Muscle Recovery: After intense physical activity, sauna use can aid in muscle recovery. The heat helps to relax muscles, reduce soreness, and flush out metabolic waste products that accumulate during exercise.

4. Detoxification: Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. Saunas induce sweating, which can help flush out toxins and impurities from the skin and body.

5. Cardiovascular Benefits: Regular sauna use can contribute to improved cardiovascular health. The dilation of blood vessels and increased circulation can lower blood pressure and improve heart function.

6. Skin Health: The increased blood flow to the skin during a sauna session can improve skin health and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. Sweating also helps to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.

7. Respiratory Health: Dry saunas can be beneficial for people with respiratory issues like congestion, bronchitis, or asthma. The warm, dry air can help clear the airways and ease breathing.

8. Boosted Immune System: Some studies suggest that regular sauna use may help strengthen the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and illnesses.

9. Pain Relief: Saunas can provide temporary relief from certain types of pain, such as arthritis or muscle pain, by promoting muscle relaxation and increasing blood flow to affected areas.

10. Improved Sleep: Sauna use can help promote better sleep. The relaxation and stress-reducing effects can lead to improved sleep quality for some individuals.

11. Mental Clarity and Focus: Regular sauna sessions have been associated with improved cognitive function, increased mental clarity, and enhanced focus.

To reiterate please check with your trusted health professional for any specific concerns prior to jumping in the hot box. There are certain health conditions that may not be best suited with sauna, although there are many that studies suggest it will help! 

There are a couple great ways to get started with sauna.

1. Join a membership facility that has sauna usage. I personally prefer the infrared saunas.
2. Get a sauna for home! What? Yes! that is my best way to do it on a routine basis.  I do have a tv mounted in front of the sauna and use it as my learning time during my 40 minute sessions.  I like that I don’t have to go somewhere else, drive, change clothes and all that fun stuff, the other thing I love is that mine has a lifetime warranty and has paid for itself already in place of paying for a membership and it is right here at home!  Either way as long as you are cleared to do so, give it a try!