Sauna use improves many aspects of health. There are currently no data on whether sauna use influences the risk of developing COVID-19, however. Evidence indicates that sauna use reduces the risk of developing pneumonia, possibly due to its ability to increase immune cells and heat shock proteins. Heat shock proteins activate the innate immune system and inhibit influenza viral replication. Access to saunas is limited now due to quarantines, but some evidence suggests that hot baths may elicit similar effects to those of sauna use. In this clip, Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses the research of how sauna-use reduces the risk of respiratory infections with implications for COVID-19.
This clip was taken from the first FoundMyFitness COVID-19 Q&A with Rhonda Patrick found at
Original episode published on April 14th, 2020
