In the fields of weight loss and wellness, the keto diet and a home infrared sauna have earned great regard and popularity for their potential benefits. With everyone always searching for the next best health and wellness treatment, many wonder if these two could work even better together. Could the metabolic effects of the keto diet work beneficially with the unique physiological effects of infrared saunas? Explore whether this can be a success or a wellness fad to skip in this article with the team at SunStream.
Understanding the Basics: Keto and Infrared Saunas
The keto diet is a metabolic strategy designed to induce a state of ketosis.
It involves eating a low-carb, high-fat diet which drastically reduces your carbohydrate intake and replaces it with fat. The carbs reduction is responsible for putting your body in the metabolic state of ketosis, where your body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. The diet also converts fat in the liver into ketones, which helps supply energy to the brain.
Depending on your size and the water weight you carry, you can lose anywhere from 1 to 10 lbs in your first week of this diet. Aside from weight loss, the keto diet has also been proven effective in reducing blood sugar and insulin levels.
On the other hand, infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly instead of heating the entire room. They can also operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas but still induce the same amount of sweating. This makes them more tolerable and comfortable for many, especially with home use.
Among the many benefits of consistent home infrared sauna use is weight loss. The heat of the sauna increases blood circulation and sweating which signals the heart to work harder. This entire process helps you burn 70 – 80 calories within the first 10 minutes of the sauna. Other benefits include improved skin health, circulation, and relaxation.
The Potentials: Why Combining Keto Diet and Infrared Saunas Might Work
Increased Fat Burning
Combining the keto diet with infrared sauna sessions may increase lipolysis or the breakdown of fats. When the body enters ketosis, it’s already primed to burn fat for fuel. Combined with the increased heart rate and sweating from infrared saunas, the body can burn more calories, leading to potentially more efficient weight loss.
Enhanced Autophagy and Cell Repair
The caloric restrictions and the increased ketone production induced by keto diets can trigger autophagy, the natural process that occurs when the body clears out damaged cell parts with new ones.
The heat stress induced by infrared saunas can also stimulate autophagy and heat shock proteins (HSPs). These HSPs are important for cell protection against stress, repairing damaged proteins, and maintaining cellular integrity. Together, these two treatments provide a heightened environment for cell repair and rejuvenation.
Reduced Inflammation and Enhanced Recovery
The keto diet sparks a protective response in the body which helps fight inflammation, oxidative stress, and sensitivity in the nervous system. Similarly, infrared saunas are known to reduce inflammation, promote circulation, and promote muscle recovery. This combination could particularly be beneficial for those who regularly exercise, speeding their recovery time and reducing their muscle soreness.
The Possible Downsides of Combining the Two Treatments
Dehydration Risk and Electrolyte Imbalance
One of the primary concerns of this combination is dehydration. The keto diet, especially in the early stages, promotes a rapid loss of water weight. Adding infrared sauna sessions into the mix can further exacerbate the body’s liquid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
To prevent this, you need proper hydration and maybe even the intake of electrolyte supplements to prevent symptoms like dizziness, muscle cramps, or heart palpitations.
Overstressing the Body
Individually, both treatments can already be somewhat demanding on the body. Keto diets, for instance, can be a huge adjustment and stressor, especially in the initial weeks. Infrared saunas, while gentle, still induce physical stress through increased heart rate and sweating. For some, combining the two can be too intense.
The Verdict
Combining these two treatments can offer a multifaceted approach to weight management and cellular health. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all strategy. While some may thrive on this combination, some, especially those with underlying conditions, may find it too taxing on their bodies.
If you’re truly interested in trying, consult with your healthcare professional first. They can provide a thorough assessment of your current condition and guide you through the entire treatment process.
Learn more about the benefits of infrared saunas combined with other treatments at our SunStream blog. We also offer infrared sauna units perfect for home use. Contact us today for more questions or inquiries.