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.
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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.
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Introduction
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Sauna use improves heart health by reducing blood pressure (Jari Laukkanen discussion)
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Sauna is associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia
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Potential therapeutic effects of whole-body hyperthermia for major depressive disorder (Charles Raison discussion)
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Some of the ways in which mu-opioid receptors may be re-sensitized through heat stress
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Should you sauna bathe before or after weight training? (Jari Laukkanen discussion)
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Sauna use increases heart rate, underpinning many of its health benefits
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