Introduction to Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas have gained popularity in recent years as a tool for improving health and wellness. Unlike regular steam saunas, infrared versions claim to penetrate the skin more deeply, offering purported unique benefits. Yet, Dr. Sean O’Mara presents a compelling case against the widespread use of infrared saunas.
The Natural Source of Infrared
Infrared energy is naturally emitted from the sun and has been a part of human life for as long as humans have existed. Our bodies have adapted to the short-wave infrared rays from the sun, which only penetrate the skin superficially. However, saunas engineered by humans emit much longer infrared wavelengths, penetrating deeper into the body’s tissues.
The Concern with Deeper Penetration
Dr. O’Mara expresses concern over these deeper penetrating infrared rays, as our bodies have not evolved any protective mechanism against them. The implication is that using infrared saunas regularly might expose our bodies in ways we’ve never naturally adapted to handle.
Recommendation for Sauna Users
For those who have already bought infrared saunas, Dr. O’Mara advises not to discard them. Instead, he suggests replacing the infrared heating element with a dry Finnish sauna heating element, which provides heat in a manner to which humans have adapted over hundreds of thousands of years.
Benefits of Dry Sauna Exposure
Regular use of dry saunas has been linked to impressive health benefits, including reduced mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases. Dr. O’Mara points to long-term studies that reveal significant reductions in mortality rates for individuals who use dry saunas regularly.
The Dose-Dependent Benefits
The frequency and duration of sauna use seem to play a critical role in the extent of benefits gained. According to studies, those who use dry saunas four to seven times weekly show a notable decrease in mortality from heart attacks, strokes, and even dementia, much more so than those with less frequent use.
The Surprising Impact on Dementia
Among the various health benefits, one of the most profound is the reduction in dementia risk. Dr. O’Mara highlights that the regular use of dry saunas can reduce dementia by 65%, offering a non-pharmaceutical method to combat this disease.
The Healthcare System Critique
Dr. O’Mara criticizes the healthcare system for its lack of emphasis on preventative measures such as sauna use. He argues that the system focuses on pharmaceutical solutions that generate profit rather than promoting lifestyle modifications that foster health.
The Economic Dimension of Chronic Disease
Chronic disease management is a significant economic sector, overshadowing industries like oil and tech. The focus on chronic disease treatment over prevention is a key issue that Dr. O’Mara believes needs reform for improved public health.
Conclusion
Dr. O’Mara’s insights suggest reconsidering the enthusiastic adoption of infrared saunas in favor of traditional dry saunas. By doing so, individuals can potentially harness centuries of health benefits while avoiding the unproven risks that deeper-penetrating infrared radiation might pose.
