Infrared saunas could actually help improve your gut health, not just provide a good sweat session. If you’ve been dealing with digestion issues or inflammation, using an infrared sauna might make a difference.
Let’s take a look at how it all works.
How Can Infrared Saunas Improve Gut Health?
Infrared saunas improve gut health by helping with circulation and reducing inflammation. The heat from the sauna increases blood flow, which helps get more oxygen and nutrients to your gut. This can lead to better digestion and overall gut function.
At the same time, the improved circulation helps your body clear out toxins, which can make it easier for your gut to work properly.
Does Heat Therapy Help Digestion?
Yes, heat therapy can help with digestion. The warmth from infrared saunas helps relax your muscles, including those around your digestive system. When your body is more relaxed, it can make the process of breaking down food a lot smoother. You might notice improved bowel regularity after consistent sauna sessions.
Another benefit is that the increased blood flow from the sauna’s heat supports nutrient absorption. Better blood circulation means more oxygen and nutrients reach your digestive organs, making them work more efficiently. This can make a difference if you’ve been struggling with slow digestion or bloating.
How Does Infrared Sauna Use Support Overall Gut Microbiome Health?
Infrared saunas can help support gut microbiome health by lowering stress and boosting your immune system [1]. Stress has a direct impact on the balance of bacteria in your gut.
When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to issues like indigestion or even more serious conditions. Regular use of an infrared sauna can lower stress levels and regulates hormones, which in turn helps maintain a healthier gut environment.
Additionally, infrared saunas can stimulate your immune system. A strong immune system is key for keeping the gut microbiome in balance, as it helps fight off harmful bacteria while supporting the growth of beneficial ones.
When your immune system is functioning well, your gut is more likely to stay in good shape, and that means better digestion, less bloating, and improved overall gut health.
Who Should Consider Infrared Sauna Therapy for Gut Health?
People dealing with digestive issues or stress-related gut problems should consider infrared sauna therapy.
If you have conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, or even just occasional bloating, the heat and relaxation from a sauna could help ease your symptoms. Infrared saunas can reduce inflammation and support better digestion, which might make a noticeable difference in how you feel day-to-day.
Even if you’re generally healthy but tend to experience gut problems when stressed, infrared saunas can be a great option. Stress often wreaks havoc on the digestive system, so regular sauna use could help you manage stress and keep your gut in check at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Infrared saunas can be a useful tool for improving gut health, especially for those dealing with inflammation or digestive issues. By promoting better circulation, reducing stress, and helping manage inflammation, regular sauna sessions could make a noticeable difference.
While there are a few risks to consider, for many people, the benefits can outweigh them. If gut health is a priority for you, giving infrared saunas a try might be worth it.
References
Lin, Li-Chi, and Yi-Ying Lin. "The Biological Effectiveness and Medical Significance of Far Infrared Radiation (FIR)." Malaysian Journal of Medical and Biological Research 8.1 (2021): 41-46.