In reply —Sauna Bathing and Healthy Sweating

We thank Eiser and Brooks for their comments about the health benefits of sauna bathing. Regular sauna bathing has some beneficial effects on blood pressure, cardiometabolic biomarkers, arterial compliance, and cardiovascular function.1 Our prospective studies have shown that higher frequency and duration of sauna bathing are related to a lower risk of cardiovascular mortality, sudden cardiac death, stroke, hypertension, pulmonary diseases, and dementia.1-3 The feelings of relaxation and promotion of mental health and well-being associated with sauna sessions might be linked to the increased production of circulating levels of hormones such as endorphins.
Source: Mayo Clinic Proceedings - Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Tags: Letter to the Editor Source Type: research