Infrared saunas are built for safety, and emit less than a laptop screen.
Increasingly popular for their valuable contributions to our wellbeing, such as detox, pain relief, and boosting circulation among others, the IR sauna is trending. Their growing popularity raises questions about the safety of EMF (electromagnetic fields) associated with the modern infrared sauna. [1]
Let’s get a clearer understanding of EMF, and its relevance in infrared saunas, so we know we’re using technology that is both beneficial and safe.
Electromagnetic fields, or EMF, are invisible waves of energy produced by electrically charged objects. Common sources include power lines, cell phones, and household appliances. While certain levels of EMF are considered harmless, there's an increasing general concern about the health implications of long-term exposure to elevated EMF levels.
In the realm of infrared saunas, EMF refers to the electromagnetic radiation emitted. Your traditional sauna registers higher EMF levels. Due to their heating mechanisms. The modern infrared saunas, on the other hand, are engineered specifically to reduce EMF emissions.
Understanding this issue, helps you to make sure your sauna use is safe. Seek out models that boast low EMF emissions, preferably backed by testing and certification.
EMF is not exclusive to infrared saunas; it's a frequent emission from numerous household devices. Our daily lives are surrounded by EMF sources, including common gadgets like smartphones and kitchen appliances.
Measuring and comprehending the EMF output of these devices leads to making informed decisions about their usage. This knowledge is also important when considering sauna technology. Saunas vary in their EMF emissions based on their design and heating elements, and it’s wise to select models designed to minimize EMF.
EMF comes in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and potential health implications. The Article 'Should You Be Worried About EMF Exposure?' is an interesting, research-based, and medically reviewed article on EMF exposure [2].
Originating from power lines and electrical appliances, ELF EMF is generally considered low risk at standard exposure levels. However, excessive exposure could have health consequences.
Emitted by wireless devices like cell phones and Wi-Fi routers, RF EMF has sparked debates about its health risks, including potential links to cancer and neurological issues.
These fields are a byproduct of electric currents and are prevalent near power lines and electrical devices. High exposure to magnetic fields has been correlated with increased health risks, such as childhood leukemia.
When discussing infrared saunas, a significant focus is placed on EMF levels. The market, responding to this concern, offers infrared saunas designed with low EMF emissions. These saunas are designed and built to diminish EMF exposure. This improves the safety and enjoyment of the sauna experience.
If you’d like to be assured, we recommend you select saunas that have undergone exhaustive testing and received certification for low EMF emissions.
Opting for a low EMF infrared sauna allows users to fully benefit from its health-promoting features, without having to worry about excessive electromagnetic exposure.
However, it's important to be aware that the term 'low EMF' is often used in marketing many products, and the definition of 'low EMF' can vary between manufacturers.
For a more detailed exploration of how EMF levels are presented in the world of infrared saunas, and what these marketing terms really mean, we suggest you read our in-depth article: 'Infrared Sauna EMF Claims: Marketing vs. reality', where we research the nuances of EMF-related marketing. It presents you with practical guidance on how to interpret these claims.
Sam Everhart
References
1. World Health Organisation, Electromagnetic Fields, https://www.who.int/health-topics/electromagnetic-fields
2. Erica Cirino and Karen Lamoreux, Should You Be Worried About EMF Exposure? Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/emf
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