Hormesis is a compensatory defense response to a stressor that conditions the body against future stressors. Heat exposure – from sauna use, hot tubs, or even hot baths – is a powerful hormetic stressor. Heat stress benefits the body's cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, and musculoskeletal systems, extending both healthspan and lifespan. In this episode, part I of a two-part series, Dr. Rhonda Patrick describes the many hormetic effects of heat stress, explain differences between various heat stress modalities, such as traditional sauna versus infrared, and answer questions about whether hot tubs promote sweating and the effects of infrared sauna on the skin and cardiovascular system.
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.
Hormesis is a compensatory defense response to a stressor that conditions the body against future stressors. Heat exposure – from sauna use, hot tubs, or even hot baths – is a powerful hormetic stressor. Heat stress benefits the body's cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, and musculoskeletal systems, extending both healthspan and lifespan.
In this episode, part I of a two-part series, Dr. Rhonda Patrick describes the many hormetic effects of heat stress, explain differences between various heat stress modalities, such as traditional sauna versus infrared, and answer questions about whether hot tubs promote sweating and the effects of infrared sauna on the skin and cardiovascular system.
Hormesis, a theory of why stress can be beneficial
Harnessing heat stress: The power of sauna
Therapeutic potential of far infrared dry saunas
The protective role of heat shock proteins
Sauna-induced neuroplasticity
Why elevating core body temperature may change the way depression is treated
Endorphins and dynorphins: The brain's opioid system
Safety tips and contraindications for sauna use
Does a hot bath have the same effects?
Can infrared saunas damage skin collagen?
How sauna mimics some benefits of exercise
Listen in on our regularly curated interview segments called "Aliquots" released every week on our premium podcast The Aliquot. Aliquots come in two flavors: features and mashups.
As we age, our hair changes: It often turns gray and becomes finer, and it might even fall out—permanently...
Processed foods fall on a spectrum, from minimally processed (like oatmeal or canned tomatoes) to ultra-processed...
Foods contain a vast array of nutrients, fiber, and bioactive compounds packaged up into a complex physical-chemical structure called...
Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB for short, is a structural protein found in LDL particles. If ApoB gets oxidized or modified, it can drive the formation...
Living long, healthy lives isn't just about luck; it's about putting in the effort and staying committed. There's plenty of scientific evidence out there tha...
