Will A Sauna Help Me Lose Water Retention Weight?

Sitting in a sauna has been a time-honored practice for centuries and can help reduce stress, as well as soothe tired, sore muscles. It will help you lose water weight, but it is not a permanent loss. The weight will be gained back once you eat or drink the equivalent of what you lost. If used properly, saunas can be a helpful part of a weight-loss program, but there are risks to your health if used improperly. Consult a doctor before using a sauna.

How They Work

Saunas are thought to have originated in Finland several hundred years ago, but forms of them have existed for thousands of years, according to FinlandiaSauna.com. Saunas are small rooms, usually made of wood, that are heated by rocks, or in more modern times, by an electric stove. The heat of the rocks or stove increases the temperature of the sauna that leads to a dry heat with little humidity; the perfect environment for sweating.

Weight Loss

When the body temperature increases in a sauna, the body reacts by releasing fluid in the form of sweat to cool the surface of the skin. The loss of water through the release of sweat and electrolytes is what leads to the weight loss. However, you will gain back the weight as soon as you start to eat or drink, according to the Stew Smith of Military.com. The heat produced by a sauna does not burn calories, and subsequently fat, which is the only way to actually lose weight permanently.

Benefits

Saunas can help in other ways other than just losing water weight. They also can reduce stress, relax tense muscles and help soothe them. Sitting in a sauna does temporarily improve the circulation by dilating the blood vessels, and it gives the heart a mild workout by increasing its pace. It can also open clogged pores and help relieve irritated lungs.

Risks

There are risks associated with using a sauna, not the least of which is dehydration. When exposed to heat, and the resulting sweating reaction, dehydration can occur. This can cause dizziness, weakness, nausea and vomiting. If the core temperate of the body goes above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, it can damage the heart, brain and kidneys, according to physicians at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System. If your water retention is caused by an underlying condition, sitting in a sauna could exacerbate it. People older than 65, children and those with heart conditions are at risk when exposed to higher temperatures for prolonged periods.

Considerations

Consult a doctor before using a sauna. If your water retention is caused by an underlying medical disorder, sitting in a sauna may not be good for you. Drink plenty of fluids, before, during and after sitting in a sauna. Limit the time in a sauna to 20 minutes or less. Step out of the sauna if you feel your heartbeat increasing too rapidly, or if you feel weak, dizzy, nauseous or like you are going to faint.