Medical disclaimer: This blog post is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
With the rise of holistic health, there has been a lot of research on how heat therapy could have substantial health benefits and may help to increase our lifespan and extend our health span. Saunas and steam rooms tend to be the most popular, especially at spas and gyms. So, what exactly are these benefits and is there a difference between saunas and steam rooms?”
Let’s start with the difference the main difference between a sauna and a steam room: The type of heat they provide.
Saunas provide dry heat ranging from 150-200 degrees with 10 to 20% humidity, the heat source is from rocks, electric heaters, or wood-burning stoves.
Steam rooms are moist and humid. They generally range from 100 to 120 degrees with 100% humidity and are generated by boiling water or steam.
Although most research has been done with saunas both have the potential to impact our health and well-being in a positive way.
Benefits that may result from using heat therapy:
- increase blood circulation
- aid in muscle recovery from workouts
- help improve heart health
- reduce blood pressure
- improve the severity of musculoskeletal disorders
- relieve headaches
- reduces colds and flu symptoms
- detox the body
- improve skin health
It has also been shown that heat therapy may decrease the risk of health outcomes such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, thromboembolism, dementia, and respiratory conditions.
People who have severe aortic valve stenosis, chest pain, seizures, myocardial infarction, uncontrolled hypertension, or severe valvular disease or who have had a heart attack should avoid saunas and steam rooms until talking to their doctor.
Saunas are generally safe but can cause unwanted consequences if not used with some caution. There are a few things to keep in mind when using any kind of heat therapy. Stay hydrated before and after to avoid exhaustion or heat stroke. Any weight you lose in the steam room is water weight, and you’ll need to replace it. Avoid alcohol. Not only can it cloud your judgment, but alcohol intoxication and the hangover phase can expose a person to cardiac arrhythmias, and saunas and steam rooms may higher the risks. When using the sauna or steam room use good judgment.
For best practices follow these rules of etiquette:
1. Enter and leave quickly and quietly, closing the door completely.
2. Wear workout clothes, a swimsuit, or a towel.
3. Use a towel to sit on and wipe off your perspiration.
4. Never pour liquid on the rocks.
5. Maintain the relaxation vibe…don’t bring your phone and do not exercise.
The role of saunas and steam rooms is to promote mental well-being and improved overall health. Researchers suggested that both exercise and sauna sessions can be effective non-drug approaches to a healthy lifestyle.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10989710
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(18)30275-1/fulltext
