The benefits of hot tubs are well known such as pain relief, stress reduction, and better sleep. But did you know that hot tubs are also beneficial for weight loss? A recent study eyes hot tubs for overweight women as a new obesity treatment. While there is no magical cure for obesity and related conditions, holistic methods, such as relaxing and a hot tub, can aid in a maintainable weight loss journey.
Hot tubs help PCOS symptoms.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women around the world. Symptoms of PCOS include high levels of inflammation, insulin resistance, and painful ovarian cysts. Often, PCOS is also accompanied by weight gain. Knowing the health benefits of using a hot tub, researchers at the University of Oregon decided to test the benefits of hot tubbing on women with PCOS.
Over two months, women with PCOS spent at least one hour relaxing in a hot tub four times a week. Before and after the study, fat tissue was collected from the women to analyze. The results found that spending time in a hot tub increased the number of “heat shock” proteins produced by the body. These proteins help reduce inflammation levels and insulin resistance. The heat from the hot tub also reduces pain caused from the ovarian cysts. The pain and stress relief from spending time in the hot tub also helps the body function and the immune system fight the effects of PCOS.
Researchers also tested fasting glucose at the beginning and end of the study. High glucose levels can indicate insulin resistance and an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. At the end of the study, the women had reduced glucose levels. Their blood pressure and heart rates were also lower, indicating a lower risk of heart disease. Finally, results showed the women’s heart health and metabolism improved over the course of the study.
What about other health issues?
This study’s results are promising for other health issues as well. Symptoms such as insulin resistance and high glucose levels are found in other conditions, like Type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance can lead to obesity, which is common for people with PCOS and Type 2 diabetes.
The University of Oregon study isn’t the only study that eyes hot tubs for overweight women as a new obesity treatment. Researchers believe that spending time in a hot tub can bring some of the same benefits as aerobic exercise. This is because the heat from a hot tub increases blood flow like aerobic exercise. Other studies show that a one-hour soak can burn as many calories as a 30-minute walk. How great is that?!
Improve your health with a hot tub!
The evidence is clear: hot tubs provide a multitude of health benefits. From pain relief to increased insulin sensitivity to losing weight, you can’t go wrong with a hot tub. Let us help you find the right one today. Contact us today or stop by one of our locations. We can’t wait to help you get started on your health and hot tub journey.