Study on the effect of sauna bathing on cardiovascular function

New findings suggest that sauna bathing has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. However, the effects on parameters of cardiovascular function and blood-based biomarkers are still unclear. The aim of this study conducted by Tanjaniina Laukkanen et al. was to investigate whether sauna bathing induces changes in arterial stiffness, blood pressure (BP) and various blood-based biomarkers.

In an experimental study, 102 participants with at least one cardiovascular risk factor were examined. The participants were exposed to a single sauna session (duration: 30 minutes, temperature: 73 °C, humidity: 10-20 %). Cardiovascular and blood-based parameters were measured before, immediately after and 30 minutes after the sauna.

The mean carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was 9.8 (2.4) m/s before the sauna and decreased to 8.6 (1.6) m/s immediately afterwards. Systolic blood pressure decreased from 137 (16) mmHg to 130 (14) mmHg after the sauna, while diastolic blood pressure decreased from 82 (10) mmHg to 75 (9) mmHg. Systolic blood pressure remained lower than before the sauna even after 30 minutes of recovery.

Significant changes in hematologic parameters occurred during the sauna session. Plasma creatinine levelsincreased slightly during the sauna and remained elevated until the recovery phase, while sodium and potassium levels remained constant.

This study shows that 30 minutes of sauna bathing has positive effects on arterial stiffness, blood pressure and certain blood-based biomarkers. These findings provide new insights into the relationship between sauna bathing and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.