Title of Study
Repeated Thermal Therapy Improves Impaired Vascular Endothelial Function in Patients With Coronary Risk Factors

Authors:
Dr. Imamura, et.al, Kagoshima Japan
Publication and Date:
Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2001

Purpose of Study
To determine whether Infrared Sauna therapy improves blood vessel function (endothelial) in patients risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking. This dysfunction represents an early stage of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

How did they do it?
Studied 25 men with at least 1 risk factor. Patients were treated in an Infrared Sauna for 15 minutes once a day for 2 weeks.

Results: Infrared Sauna Treatment

• Significantly lowered blood pressure
• Significant weight loss
• Significantly lowered blood sugar
• Significantly increased blood flow
• Lowered cholesterol
• Lowered triglycerides

Conclusion:
• Repeated Infrared Sauna treatment improves impaired blood vessel functions in patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and high cholesterol. This suggests a preventive role for sauna use for atherosclerosis.