What are the health benefits of sauna?

Sauna use has multiple health benefits, as discussed by Andrew Huberman in the Huberman Lab. Here are the key benefits:

1. Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Events: Regular sauna use (2-7 times per week) can reduce the risk of dying from cardiovascular events by 27% to 50%, dependent on frequency. This effect is independent of other health behaviors like exercise or smoking cessation 1.

2. Mimics Cardiovascular Exercise: Sauna exposure can simulate the effects of cardiovascular exercise. It increases heart rate, blood flow, and activates specific brain areas that handle stress responses, leading to similar benefits as moderate physical exercise 2.

3. Longevity Benefits: Increased sauna frequency is associated with reduced all-cause mortality. This suggests regular sauna use may contribute to overall longer life expectancy 3.

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     Sauna Benefits

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     Sauna Health Benefits

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     Sauna Benefits Explained

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     Sauna Benefits Explored

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4. Hormonal Improvements: Sauna use can alter hormone levels, increasing growth hormone and reducing cortisol, which are beneficial for stress management and overall health 2.

5. Excretion of Heavy Metals: Through sweating, sauna use helps in the excretion of heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and aluminum from the body, providing a detoxifying effect 4.

For optimal health outcomes, Andrew Huberman suggests a frequency of three to four times per week, utilizing temperatures between 80-100 degrees Celsius (176-212 degrees Fahrenheit) for sessions lasting 10-20 minutes 1. However, he also notes that the benefits can vary based on individual heat tolerance and health status. It's advised to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new sauna routine, especially for those with health concerns.