The Heart-Protective Power of Sauna: Studies Show Up to 63% Lower Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death
This review looked at a wide body of research on sauna bathing—both traditional Finnish saunas and far-infrared saunas—and how they may help people with ischemic heart disease, a condition caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Across many studies, regular sauna use was linked to better blood vessel function, lower blood pressure, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and healthier regulation of the nervous system that controls heart rate and stress. In large long-term studies from Finland, people who used saunas several times per week had dramatically lower risks of sudden cardiac death and fatal heart disease, with more frequent and longer sessions showing greater benefits.
More specifically: Frequent sauna use (4–7 times per week at/for 19+ minutes) is strongly associated with a 40–50% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, and all-cause mortality, compared to once-weekly use. This, along with a 63% lower risk of sudden cardiac death, suggests significant cardiovascular, heart-rate, and blood-flow benefits.
The review also highlights why sauna therapy may be especially valuable for people who can’t exercise easily due to age, mobility issues, or heart limitations. Sauna bathing creates cardiovascular effects similar to moderate exercise—such as increased heart rate and blood vessel dilation—without physical strain. Far-infrared saunas, in particular, offer a gentler form of heat that’s easier to tolerate and has shown promising results in improving heart function and quality of life in patients with chronic heart conditions. While more large-scale clinical trials are still needed, the overall takeaway is that consistent sauna use appears to be a safe, supportive tool that can complement standard heart care and rehabilitation when used appropriately and under medical guidance.
