If you’re looking for a way to detox, lose weight and improve your health, you might want to consider adding sauna sessions to your routine.
Sauna use has many benefits, such as detoxifying your body, boosting your immune system, and relaxing your mind. But did you know that sauna can also help you detox, burn calories and lose fat?
In this article, we’ll explain how sauna works for weight loss, how to use it safely and effectively, and what to expect from your results.
How sauna works for weight loss
Sauna is a form of heat therapy that exposes your body to high temperatoures for a short period of time.
This causes your body to sweat profusely, which helps you eliminate toxins and excess water. But sweating also has another effect: it increases your heart rate and metabolism, which means you burn more calories during and after your sauna session.
Saunas: Relax and burn! Studies suggest a 30-minute sauna session can burn up to 200 calories (think 15-minute run or 25-minute bike ride).
Saunas might also help with fat loss by stimulating hormones that break down fat cells and preserve muscle, key for a toned body and a higher metabolism. (Note: Calorie burn can vary based on factors like weight and age.)
How to Maximize Your Sauna Sessions for Weight Loss:
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Slow and steady: New to saunas? Begin with short sessions (around 10 minutes) and gradually increase duration and frequency. Don’t go over 30 minutes per session or 90 minutes weekly.
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Hydration hero: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after to combat dehydration and electrolyte loss. Consider adding electrolytes or lemon juice to your water for replenishment.
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Eat smart: Sauna might rev up your appetite. Stick to a balanced, weight-loss-friendly diet. Avoid overeating or skipping meals. Aim for light snacks or meals with protein, carbs, and healthy fats before or after your sauna time.
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Rest assured: Sauna can improve sleep by relaxing muscles and nerves. However, it can also make you drowsy, so avoid using it close to bedtime. Aim for at least a two-hour buffer between your sauna session and sleep.
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Listen to your body: Generally safe, saunas can cause side effects like dizziness, nausea, headaches, or fainting. Stop using it immediately if you experience any of these and seek medical attention if needed. Additionally, avoid saunas if you have certain medical conditions or are pregnant/breastfeeding.
What to expect from your results
Sauna can help you lose weight by burning calories and fat, but it’s not a magic bullet. You still need to follow a healthy diet and exercise program that suits your needs and goals. Sauna can enhance your results by improving your health and well-being, but it won’t do all the work for you.
Regular sauna use (a few weeks or months) can complement your weight-loss plan. You might see changes like reduced inches around your waist or clearer, smoother skin. However, remember, sauna results are not instantaneous and can vary.
Saunas offer potential benefits beyond weight loss, including improved energy levels and mood. But for a safe and effective experience, follow these key tips: hydrate well, listen to your body, and prioritize a balanced diet and good sleep.