Aliquot #35: Sauna use mimics the physiological effects of exercise
Aliquot #35: Sauna use mimics the physiological effects of exercise
The physiological responses to sauna use are incredibly similar to those experienced during moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise. As a result, sauna use is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. The mechanisms that drive these effects are likely due to increased heat shock proteins and metabolic and hormonal changes that accompany exercise and sauna use. In this episode of the Aliquot, Dr. Jari Laukannen, a cardiologist; Dr. Charles Raison, a professor of psychiatry; and I discuss the benefits of sauna use.
Get these episodes in a convenient podcast format.
Aliquot episodes make great companion listening for a long drive. You can find these special members-only episodes alongside live recorded Q&As on The Aliquot, our official premium FoundMyFitness podcast.
The physiological responses to sauna use are incredibly similar to those experienced during moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise. As a result, sauna use is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. The mechanisms that drive these effects are likely due to increased heat shock proteins and metabolic and hormonal changes that accompany exercise and sauna use. In this episode of the Aliquot, Dr. Jari Laukannen, a cardiologist; Dr. Charles Raison, a professor of psychiatry; and I discuss the benefits of sauna use.
-
Introduction
-
Sauna use improves heart health by reducing blood pressure (Jari Laukkanen discussion)
-
Sauna is associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia
-
Potential therapeutic effects of whole-body hyperthermia for major depressive disorder (Charles Raison discussion)
-
Some of the ways in which mu-opioid receptors may be re-sensitized through heat stress
-
Should you sauna bathe before or after weight training? (Jari Laukkanen discussion)
-
Sauna use increases heart rate, underpinning many of its health benefits
Get email updates with the latest curated healthspan research
Support our work
Every other week premium members receive a special edition newsletter that summarizes all of the latest healthspan research.
Recent Aliquot Episodes
Aliquot #117: The Science of Lactate in Brain Performance
Lactate often gets a bad rap due to its close association with lactic acid. But lactate plays a distinctly different and often-underappreciated role...
Aliquot #116: Testosterone Optimization Strategies for Men
Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced primarily in the testes in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries in females. It's crucial...
Aliquot #115: A Lifestyle Guide for Mitochondrial Optimization
Mitochondrial health and overall health are intrinsically linked. Identifying ways to boost mitochondrial biogenesis...
Aliquot #114: Supplements & Diet Strategies to Boost Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria are best known for their energy-producing roles, but they also help regulate cellular metabolism, signaling, and apoptosis...
Aliquot #113: Is resistance training a type of aerobic exercise?
Aerobic exercise and resistance training are essential for optimal health. However, finding the time to do both can be challenging...