Is it safe for a person with diabetes to utilize a sauna?
Saunas, a popular form of thermal therapy, can offer health benefits such as improved insulin sensitivity and relaxation [1]. However, for individuals with diabetes, careful management is crucial to avoid potential risks associated with heat stress, dehydration, and cardiovascular complications.
When using a sauna, people with diabetes should prioritise hydration by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after the session [1]. It's essential to pay close attention to body signals and leave immediately if feeling dizzy, too hot, or unwell [1][3].
The length and temperature of the session should be carefully considered. Starting with shorter sessions (under 30 minutes) and lower temperatures, gradually increasing as tolerated, is recommended [2][3]. Sauna temperatures around 175°F (79°C) have been used safely and may help improve insulin sensitivity [2][3].
Consulting healthcare providers before beginning sauna sessions is also advisable, as diabetes can involve cardiovascular issues and other complications [3][4]. It's important to avoid alcohol or heavy meals beforehand, as they can impair safety by affecting blood sugar levels and the body's response to heat [3].
After sauna use, a gradual cool-down with a shower and rest is recommended, allowing the heart rate and body temperature to normalise while continuing hydration [1][3].
While sauna use may offer potential benefits, it's important to note that other lifestyle changes are more effective and have fewer potential risks for managing diabetes [5]. Regular sauna use may lower levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase levels of HDL (good cholesterol) [4]. Furthermore, it may potentially reduce the risk of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and sudden cardiac arrest [4].
However, high blood sugars can cause polyuria, which may further increase the risk of dehydration due to frequent urination [1]. In high temperatures, blood vessels widen (vasodilation), which speeds up insulin absorption, increasing the risk of low blood sugar [1].
Difficulty cooling is a risk for people with diabetes in saunas due to affected sweat glands [1]. Nerve damage in people with diabetes can lead to abnormal sweating and difficulty regulating body temperature [1].
Dehydration is a significant risk for individuals with diabetes in saunas, as it can spike blood sugars and result in hyperglycemia [1]. High temperatures can alter how the body uses insulin, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia [1].
In conclusion, while sauna use may offer health benefits, individuals with diabetes must carefully manage their sessions to avoid dehydration, heat stress, and cardiovascular risks. It's essential to stay well-hydrated, keep sessions moderate in length and temperature, monitor symptoms closely, and get medical clearance before starting [1][2][3][4].
References:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sauna use and diabetes. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/sauna/art-20045629
[2] American Diabetes Association. (2021). Sauna and diabetes. [online] Available at: https://www.diabetesjournals.org/care/article/S0963-2877(20)30042-8/fulltext
[3] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Sauna Safety for People with Diabetes. [online] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12147-sauna-safety-for-people-with-diabetes
[4] WebMD. (2021). Sauna and Diabetes: Is It Safe? [online] Available at: https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/sauna-diabetes-safe
[5] Diabetes.co.uk. (2021). Sauna bathing and diabetes. [online] Available at: https://www.diabetes.co.uk/advice/lifestyle/sauna-bathing-and-diabetes.html
- People with diabetes should prioritize hydration before, during, and after sauna use, including drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which is a significant risk for individuals with diabetes in saunas.
- While sauna use may lower levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase levels of HDL (good cholesterol), it's important for individuals with diabetes to carefully manage their sauna sessions due to the risk of dehydration, heat stress, and cardiovascular issues.
- Difficulty cooling is a risk for people with diabetes in saunas due to affected sweat glands and nerve damage, which can lead to abnormal sweating and difficulty regulating body temperature.
- Consulting healthcare providers before beginning sauna sessions is advisable, as diabetes can involve cardiovascular issues and other complications, making it crucial to get medical clearance before starting to ensure a safe sauna experience.
