Sauna Weight Loss & Calories

Spending time in a sauna causes weight loss but does not burn any calories. The weight you lose is only liquid. The resulting weight loss is temporary and can be regained by simply drinking water. Extended use of a sauna can have harmful effects on your health. Consult your doctor before using a sauna, particularly if you have any medical conditions.

Perspiraton

Despite what the advertisements state, saunas do not cause fat to melt away. The weight loss caused by a sauna or similar products is because of increased perspiration, Harvard Health Publications report. The heat generated by saunas creates an artificial rise in body temperature which in turn causes your body to sweat in attempt to regulate it.

Health Benefits

During a session in the sauna, very few, if any calories, burn off due to the intense heat. According to Dr. Harvey Simon, editor-in-chief of Harvard Men's Health Watch, saunas have very little positive health effects besides relaxation and the feeling of general well being.

Uses

Saunas and sauna suits have long been used as a method of relaxation and a quick weight-loss method. Boxers, wrestlers, and other athletes can lose weight quickly to enable them to compete in a lower weight division, Finland's UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research explains. Excessive use of saunas has resulted in many health problems and even death.

Dangers

Dehydration, muscle cramps, dizziness, and heat stroke are the most common harmful results of extended sauna use, the Dietspotlight website cautions. An individual who has uncontrolled blood pressure issues should not use saunas. Use of saunas under these conditions causes unhealthy dropping or spiking of blood pressure. Saunas can also cause low sperm count in men and lead to birth defects if used by pregnant women.

Calorie Burn

The only proven method of burning calories is physical exercise. Exercise not only burns calories but also increase the speed at which your metabolism breaks down food. Exercise also improves your cardiovascular health. Saunas are safe to be used as a post-workout relaxation tool, Simon explains.