Infrared Sauna Therapy: Impact on Cancer Cells
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential health benefits of infrared sauna therapy. Infrared saunas use light to create heat, which is taken by the body, resulting in a range of health benefits.
Several studies have explored the potential impact of infrared sauna therapy on various health conditions, including cancer. For example, a study published in the Journal of Cancer Science and Therapy in 2015 found that infrared sauna therapy can selectively kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
While infrared sauna therapy is not a replacement for conventional cancer treatments, it may be a complementary treatment option. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of infrared sauna therapy as a complementary treatment option for cancer patients and discuss its safety and effectiveness.
What is Infrared Sauna Therapy?
Infrared sauna treatment uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light, penetrating the skin and directly heating the body without warming the air around it. This helps in achieving a deep sweat, which has been linked to various health benefits such as detoxification, relaxation, better circulation, and pain relief.
Infrared Sauna Therapy and Cancer Cells
A higher temperature has a more significant effect on cancer cells when compared to an average healthy individual.
A study on the effects of infrared sauna therapy on cancer cells was recently released in the International Journal of Hyperthermia. Researchers have discovered that infrared sauna treatment can kill cancer cells by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) without harming healthy cells. Findings suggested that infrared sauna therapy could be helpful as an adjunctive treatment for cancer.
Another study published in the Journal of Cancer Science and Therapy found that infrared sauna therapy can enhance the effects of chemotherapy in breast cancer cells. In addition, the study also found that infrared sauna therapy can sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy by inducing heat stress and increasing the expression of specific genes involved in cell death.
Potential Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for Cancer Patients
While more research is still recommended to fully understand the potential benefits of infrared sauna therapy for cancer patients, here are some potential benefits:
- Increased Cancer Cell Death: Infrared sauna therapy can kill more cancer cells while sparing healthy cells from any harm.
- Improved Chemotherapy Efficacy: Infrared sauna therapy can potentially make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy, which could increase the efficacy of cancer treatments.
- Reduced Inflammation: Infrared sauna treatment has been shown to reduce body inflammation, which may be beneficial for cancer patients since inflammation can further promote the development and progression of the cancer growth.
- Detoxification: Using an infrared sauna can aid in removing pollutants from the body, which may be beneficial for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
- Increased Quality of Life: Infrared sauna therapy can help cancer patients relax and take away the stress of daily-life, which may enhance their overall quality of life and well-being.
It is important to remember that the efficacy of the Infrared sauna, and how well it serves the expected benefits will depend on the wellness clinic, the type of infrared saunas they offer, and the technology, and system involved in the process.
Takeaway
In conclusion, while more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of infrared sauna therapy for cancer patients, it is believed by many wellness experts that infrared sauna therapy may have potential as a complementary therapy for cancer patients.
If you’re interested in trying infrared sauna therapy, make sure to choose a reliable wellness centre. You should also consult your doctor before trying new therapies or treatments, especially if you’re undergoing cancer treatment.