Infrared saunas have undergone clinical testing specifically aimed at weight loss. A notable study by Binghamton University (SUNY) in New York utilized far infrared saunas for their weight loss trial, yielding impressive results.
The body generates heat during sauna use, which offers various health benefits, with weight loss being one of the most significant. Many gyms and health spas incorporate saunas into their facilities for this reason.
What Contributes to Sauna Weight Loss?
How do traditional and infrared saunas compare in terms of weight loss? What does research reveal? Here are some key insights.
Sauna Weight Loss Studies
A two-phase study at Binghamton University demonstrated that an increase in core body temperature led to a reduction in body fat. Participants who used a infrared sauna three times a week for 30 minutes each session lost an average of 4% body fat over four months. For a 175-pound individual, this translates to a weight loss of about seven pounds.
Importantly, those who lost weight with the infrared sauna made no changes to their exercise or diet during the study. In contrast, control groups that did not use the far infrared sauna showed no weight loss. This highlights the potential of infrared therapy in supporting weight loss goals.
Benefits of Sauna Weight Loss
While losing weight often requires lifestyle changes, it’s essential to recognize that there’s no single target number for everyone to achieve health. The Obesity Action Coalition suggests that losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly enhance overall health, improving cholesterol levels, reducing hypertension, preventing diabetes, alleviating sleep apnea, and lowering inflammation and stress.
Stress is often an overlooked factor in weight management. Elevated stress can lead to fat accumulation, particularly around the abdomen, hips, and thighs, making individuals feel sluggish. Addressing stress through methods like infrared sauna use can be a valuable part of a comprehensive weight loss strategy, promoting a noticeable improvement in both appearance and well-being.
Comparison of Sauna Types
Traditional saunas are effective for soothing sore muscles and temporarily boosting blood circulation, operating at temperatures between 180-220°F. While they offer relaxation, traditional saunas primarily heat the air rather than the body itself, limiting their effectiveness for weight loss compared to infrared saunas.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, directly warm the body, enhancing core temperature and promoting toxin elimination in a safe and comfortable manner. The infrared heat from Infrared saunas may also help increase human growth hormone (HGH) levels and lower cortisol, facilitating weight loss and enhancing overall health.
Toxins and Weight Loss
Excess toxins can not only impede weight loss but also cause fatigue, muscle discomfort, and skin issues like acne.
In a featured video, Dr. Raleigh Duncan discusses how toxins known as obesogens and chemicals like BPA can hinder fat loss. He emphasizes that when fat cells become toxic, losing fat becomes difficult even with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Dr. Duncan states, “The sauna gets the toxins out, and then the fat will start to come off. That’s how the whole system works.”
Infrared sauna weight loss is an easy, comfortable, and relaxing option that offers numerous wellness benefits. Infrared heat has been a reliable tool for enhancing overall health for many years.