For centuries, the benefits of saunas have been recognized for improving health and well-being. Today, more and more people are turning to the sauna to lose weight and benefit from its many benefits. In this article, we will explore how saunas can help you lose weight effectively and sustainably. So don't hesitate to immerse yourself in the relaxing and detoxifying world of the sauna to intensify your weight loss and improve your lifestyle!
How a sauna session works
Before understanding how the sauna works to lose weight , it is essential to know the principle behind a sauna session. A classic sauna uses either dry heat generated by hot stones or moist heat obtained from water vapor. The main purpose of a sauna is to make its user sweat to eliminate toxins and purify the body. The temperature can rise up to 90°C in certain types of saunas, which significantly increases blood circulation and helps eliminate unwanted substances.
Traditional sauna vs infrared sauna
There are mainly two types of saunas: the traditional (Finnish) sauna and the infrared sauna. The traditional sauna, as mentioned earlier, uses hot stones or steam to heat the air around you. In contrast, infrared sauna uses heating panels that emit far-infrared rays to directly penetrate your skin and deeply warm your body.
Infrared sauna may offer some additional benefits over traditional sauna, especially when it comes to weight loss. Infrared rays can penetrate up to 4cm under the skin, increasing fat dissolution and helping burn more calories.
How does sauna help with weight loss?
Sauna for weight loss is an effective approach to supporting weight loss, mainly thanks to the following three mechanisms:
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Sweating: During a sauna session, the heat causes an increase in body temperature like a sweat belt . To maintain its internal temperature constant, the body must sweat profusely to cool itself. This excessive sweating results in permanent water loss, which leads to slight immediate weight loss. However, it is essential to rehydrate properly after each session to avoid dehydration and compensate for this water loss.
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Increased Metabolism: Exposure to heat during a sauna session speeds up metabolism, allowing the body to burn more calories even when resting. Indeed, when body temperature increases, the body must expend more energy to maintain a stable temperature. This energy comes primarily from fat burning, which leads to significant and lasting weight loss.
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Detoxification: Sweating profusely during a sauna session helps eliminate toxins and promotes hormonal balance. These purifying effects can indirectly contribute to weight loss by improving the overall health of the body and optimizing its functioning.
Maintaining a Regular Sauna Routine
To maximize the benefits of sauna for weight loss , it is recommended to follow a regular routine. You can go to the sauna 2 to 3 times a week, in addition to a healthy diet and a suitable physical exercise program. The ideal duration of a session varies between 15 and 30 minutes, but your personal heat tolerance must be taken into account. Remember to drink plenty of water before, during and after each session to prevent dehydration and maintain good fluid balance.
Other Health Benefits of Sauna
Although sauna for weight loss is a valuable asset, it also offers many other benefits for health and well-being. Here are some of the other benefits of regular sauna use:
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Muscle recovery: The heat of a sauna helps relax muscles and facilitates the elimination of lactic acids, which promotes better recovery after physical exercise.
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Improved blood circulation: Heat dilates blood vessels and thus improves blood circulation in your body. This can help reduce blood pressure and maintain good cardiovascular health.
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Relaxation: The warm, soothing environment of a sauna also supports mental and physical relaxation, helping to reduce stress and provide a sense of overall well-being.
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Strengthening the immune system: Heat stimulates the production of white blood cells, which strengthens the immune system and minimizes the risk of infections.
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Joint Pain Relief: People suffering from arthritis may find some relief from the increased blood circulation and heat in their joints during a sauna session.
Precautions to take when using the sauna to lose weight
Even though the “sauna for weight loss” offers many benefits, it is crucial to take certain precautions to avoid any health risks. Here are some recommendations to follow:
- Avoid the sauna if you have serious heart disease or high blood pressure.
- Do not use the sauna immediately after a heavy meal or intense workout.
- Do not consume alcohol before or during a sauna session.
- If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before using a sauna.
- Use caution when using a sauna with children.
In summary, sauna for weight loss can be an effective and complementary method to support weight loss and improve the overall health of the body. By regularly using the sauna with care, adopting a balanced diet and practicing regular physical activity, you can achieve your slimming goals and enjoy a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. Don't wait any longer and explore the many possibilities offered by the sauna to lose weight!
