If you are looking for a natural remedy to boost your digestive well-being, find out how infrared sauna therapy can help you relieve common digestive discomforts like bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, leaky gut syndrome, and constipation.

Before we discuss how this therapy can be your ally in such ailments, let's go to the source first.

A quick tour of the blog post

• The body's engine
• Microbial Metropolis
• The integral role of gut health in overall well-being
• Proactive management for gut health
• Science of infrared saunas
• Potential of infrared therapy for gut microbiome balance
• Gastrointestinal health with infrared saunas
• Bringing infrared sauna therapy into your home

---

The Body's Engine

The digestive system is the powerhouse that fuels our bodies, a sophisticated network spanning from the mouth to the anus. Its primary mission is to absorb, break down, and assimilate vital nutrients from our food, but its influence extends far beyond mere digestion.

Serving as a critical line of defense against pathogens, the digestive system also upholds the intricate balance of our internal microbiome, ensuring our body's resilience and vitality.

---

A Microbial Metropolis

At the core of this complex digestive process lies the gut microbiome [1], a bustling ecosystem teeming with trillions of microorganisms, both beneficial and potentially harmful. This microbial community plays a pivotal role in breaking down dietary fibers, bolstering immune functions, and safeguarding the intestinal wall's integrity.

Acting as a powerful barrier, it shields us from external threats and underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy and balanced gut environment.

---

---

The Integral Role of Gut Health in Overall Well-being

The guts are also called the 'second brain' of your body, and here's why:

The Gut-Brain connection

At the heart of this intricate relationship lies the gut-brain axis [2], a two-way communication line that allows the gut and brain to send signals to each other. This connection is so profound that disruptions in the gut can reverberate throughout the body, affecting mood, energy levels, and even cognitive function.

The diverse community of microorganisms in our gut microbiome plays a key role in this, producing neurotransmitters and signaling molecules that can influence our brain function and mood. This shows how our digestive health is deeply intertwined with our mental and emotional well-being, far beyond digestion.

That “gut feeling” you sometimes get is a clear sign of how closely linked our digestive and emotional states are, and illustrates the profound impact of gut health on our daily lives.

Modern Lifestyle Challenges to maintain gastrointestinal health

Maintaining gut health often contrasts with the challenges of our contemporary way of life: Processed foods, chronic stress, and over-reliance on medications, to name a few, pose significant threats to the delicate balance of our gut microbiome [3,4,5]. Such disruptions can lead to a cascade of digestive problems [6].

---

---

Proactive Management for Gut Health

The adage 'you are what you eat' couldn't be more relevant when it comes to maintaining gut health. In a world where over 60 to 70 million people [7] suffer from digestive diseases, the significance of our dietary choices is paramount. This wisdom not only highlights the direct impact of our food on our intestinal health but also on our overall well-being.

Given the challenges posed by our modern lifestyle, adopting a holistic approach to gut health is essential. This involves more than just conscious nutrition and hydration; it encompasses regular exercise and, considering the gut-brain connection, stress management as well.

Infrared therapy can help, with its unique contribution to self care that aligns with the body's natural healing mechanisms. 

It may particularly soothe people with chronic gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, by promoting relaxation and reducing stress-related symptoms [8,9].

---

---

Infrared Saunas and Gastrointestinal Health

Improved Blood Flow

When the infrared radiation infiltrates the skin, it causes blood vessels to dilate, a process known as vasodilation [10]. This dilation leads to an increase in blood flow, akin to the effects of moderate exercise but without the physical exertion.

The circulation is vital as it ensures a more efficient delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to every part of the body, including vital digestive organs like the stomach, intestines, and liver.

The reinforced blood flow aids in the repair and regeneration of tissues, promoting overall digestive health and facilitating the healing of damaged areas within the gastrointestinal tract.

---

The Best Infrared Sauna Blanket Reviews Of 2024

---

Support for Digestive Processes

Increased blood flow means that the stomach and intestines get enough oxygen and nutrients they need to efficiently break down food, absorb nutrients and move waste through the digestive tract.

The result is a more effective digestive process, which can alleviate common digestive problems such as bloating, constipation and irregular bowel movements.

Relief from Inflammation

Infrared sauna therapy may be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from gastrointestinal conditions characterized by inflammation, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and IBS.

More efficient circulation and heat of the sauna help remove waste products and reduce inflammation by promoting the repair of the intestinal lining and reducing the presence of pro-inflammatory markers in the body.

This anti-inflammatory effect can lead to a notable relief from tenderness, pain and other symptoms associated with certain conditions.

Stress Reduction

Stress is a known aggravator of many gastrointestinal disorders, including IBS and acid reflux. The stress-reducing effects of IR sauna sessions can positively impact the digestive system by lowering cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can disrupt digestive processes [11] and intestinal motility.

---

Best Pemf Mat Reviews 2024

---

Detoxification Support

The infrared rays penetrate deep into your body and trigger a sweat response that helps eliminate toxins, including heavy metals and chemical pollutants, that can burden the digestive system and disrupt intestinal health.

By helping to remove toxins, IR saunas can ease the burden on the liver and kidneys, organs crucial for detoxification, allowing the digestive system to function more efficiently and effectively.

Direct Immune System Activation

IR saunas directly influence the immune system by stimulating the production of heat shock proteins. These proteins are produced in response to stress conditions such as high temperatures and play a crucial role in regulating the immune system by helping the body identify and respond to damaged cells, pathogens and other threats.

This direct stimulation of the immune system can strengthen the body's ability to maintain gastrointestinal health by more effectively controlling infections, inflammation, and even the balance of intestinal flora.

---

Potential of Infrared Therapy for Gut Microbiome Balance

During our research into the potential of infrared sauna therapy for gut health we stumbled on a 2022 study [12] which focused on the effects of photobiomodulation therapy that shed light on the intriguing potential of light-based treatments to influence gut health.

Photobiomodulation is a form of light therapy that uses near-infrared light, similar to the wavelengths used in IR saunas. This particular research explored the impact of photobiomodulation on the gut microbiome of individuals with Parkinson's disease, offering a glimpse into the broader implications for digestive health.

---

Discover the Benefits of Sauna Domes

---

Insights from Photobiomodulation Research

The study in question retrospectively analyzed stool samples from Parkinson's patients who underwent a 12-week regimen of photobiomodulation therapy, targeting not only the abdomen but also the neck, head, and nose.

The findings revealed notable changes in the gut microbiome composition post-treatment, particularly an improvement in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F:B) ratio.

This ratio represents the balance between two major types of bacteria in your gut, essential for digestive health and overall well-being. It's a critical marker often linked to gut health, with imbalances associated with various gastrointestinal issues, including IBS and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Implications for Infrared Sauna Therapy

Although the study specifically examined photobiomodulation, the therapeutic use of near-infrared light has similarities to infrared used in IR saunas. The observed changes in the microbiome suggest that IR sauna therapy could also have the potential to positively impact gut health by promoting a more balanced and healthier gut flora.

Preliminary findings that emphasize the potential for using IR sauna therapy to complement traditional approaches for managing and preventing gastrointestinal issues.

The Need for Further Research

The potential of infrared therapy to reinforce circulation, reduce stress and potentially impact the gut microbiome offers an exciting complementary therapy in addressing gastrointestinal health.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that direct research on the effects of IR sauna therapy on the gut microbiome is still in its infancy. However, the promising results from related areas such as photobiomodulation provide a compelling argument for further research.

---

Gastrointestinal Health with Infrared Saunas

Intrigued by the potential of an infrared sauna as a possible ally in your approach to healthy intestinal flora?

If you're considering making infrared sauna therapy part of your selfcare routine, consult your doctor first, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

---

---

Bringing Infrared Sauna Therapy Into Your Home

We invite you to explore our website. At Saunace.com we aim to provide you with unbiased assessments and comprehensive insights into the infrared sauna market.

Our reviews delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of different types of infrared sauna solutions, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences:

From the convenience and affordability of sauna blankets starting at just $140, to the advanced therapeutic benefits of PEMF mats, there is an option to suit every lifestyle and budget. When you prioritize portability, lightweight and compact solutions are ideal for traveling or having limited space. 

Meanwhile, full-spectrum sauna cabins, equipped with red light therapy, offer an enhanced experience when you want to make a more substantial investment in your home or backyard wellness oasis. The spacious cabins give room for a sauna workout or pleasurable sauna time with your partner, friends, or family. 

Bringing infrared sauna therapy into your home represents a commitment to uplifting your wellbeing and creates a relaxing and healing retreat. The choice is a personal move towards holistic health. Meanwhile, we're here to help you every step of the way.

---

References

1. Cleveland Clinic, Gut Microbiome, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/25201-gut-microbiome

2. Cleveland Clinic, Gut0Brain Connection, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/the-gut-brain-connection

3. Zumin Shi, Gut Microbiota: An Important Link between Western Diet and Chronic Diseases, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835660/

4. Annelise Madison and Janice K Kiecolt-Glaser, Stress, depression, diet, and the gut microbiota: human–bacteria interactions at the core of psychoneuroimmunology and nutrition, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7213601/

5. Lisa Maier and Athanasios Typas, Systematically investigating the impact of medication on the gut microbiome, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29169088/

6. PR Newswire, Two-Thirds of Americans Are Living With Gut Issues, Unaware of the Health Consequences, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/two-thirds-of-americans-are-living-with-gut-issues-unaware-of-the-health-consequences-301833342.html

7. American Gastroenterological Association, New survey finds forty percent of Americans’ daily lives are disrupted by digestive troubles, https://gastro.org/press-releases/new-survey-finds-forty-percent-of-americans-daily-lives-are-disrupted-by-digestive-troubles/

8. Cleveland Clinic, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4342-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs

9. Cleveland Clinic, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15587-inflammatory-bowel-disease-overview

10. Cleveland Clinic, Vasodilation, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23352-vasodilation

11. Cherpak CE. Mindful Eating: A Review Of How The Stress-Digestion-Mindfulness Triad May Modulate And Improve Gastrointestinal And Digestive Function. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2019 Aug;18(4):48-53. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7219460/

12. Brian Bicknell, Microbiome Changes in Humans with Parkinson's Disease after Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Retrospective Study, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35055364/

If you like this blogpost you might find the following articles as interesting as well