Sauna Bathing Boosts Immune System

A new study conducted by the University of Eastern Finland and the University of Turku in Finland has revealed that sauna bathing releases white blood cells into the bloodstream, enhancing immune surveillance. A 30-minute sauna session increased the number of circulating white blood cells, including neutrophils and lymphocytes, which returned to baseline within half an hour. Researchers Ilkka Heinonen and Jari Laukkanen explained that this mobilization of white blood cells is beneficial for immune defense. The study, involving 51 adults, also found that cytokine levels changed in relation to body temperature rise during sauna bathing. The results were published in the scientific journal Nature (journal). While the findings suggest how regular sauna bathing may contribute to beneficial health effects, the researchers emphasized that the study focused on immediate effects, and further research is needed for long-term conclusions.