In a study conducted by Dorota Gryka, Wanda Pilch, Marta Szarek, Zbigniew Szygula, and Łukasz Tota, the effects of Finnish sauna bathing on the lipid profile of healthy, young male subjects were examined. The study involved 16 men aged 20-23, who participated in 10 sauna sessions, each lasting approximately 45 minutes, with a temperature of 90°C and humidity ranging from 5-16%. Researchers measured various health indicators, including body mass, heart rate, skinfold thickness, body fat percentage, and blood lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides) before and after the sauna sessions. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol after the sauna treatments, with the effects persisting for up to one week post-treatment. Additionally, a temporary decline in triglyceride levels was observed after both the first and the final sauna sessions.
The study concluded that Finnish sauna bathing can lead to improvements in the lipid profile, including reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, and a transient decrease in triglycerides. Although the increase in HDL cholesterol was not statistically significant, the overall impact on lipid levels was comparable to the effects of moderate-intensity physical exercise. These findings suggest that regular sauna bathing could be an effective, non-invasive method for improving heart health, particularly by reducing risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. The research conducted by Gryka and colleagues adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of sauna use, particularly in terms of improving cardiovascular and metabolic functions.
