Hot bath versus saunas: Which is more effective for heart health? Study answers

The study observed that being submerged in water leads to more dramatic physiological changes than opting for a sauna.

Do you think trendy sauna sessions are the key to better health? Think again. A recent study led by Jessica Atencio and Christopher Minson from the University of Oregon suggests that something as simple as a hot bath can offer surprising health benefits. In fact, soaking in a hot bath may significantly boost heart health — without the need to hit the gym or go for a run.

Findings of the study:

Heading straight to a hot bath can boost your heart health. (Freepik)

The scientists picked 20 healthy adults for the study and tested three sessions of heated immersions to understand how hot baths can affect the body. It was observed that hot water immersion can lead to greater thermoregulatory, cardiovascular, and immune responses compared to saunas. While wellness influencers suggest saunas for health reasons, hot baths might be cheaper, more effective, and an at-home therapy to boost heart health.

The study, published in the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology, on June 9, 2025, states that instead of opting for traditional or infrared saunas, a 45-minute soak in hot water can do more dramatic physiological changes.

Here's why you need to take hot baths often.

The study authors noted that water can conduct heat 24 times more than air. When we are submerged in hot water, the body receives constant heating, unlike saunas where the temperature keeps varying and the body also starts to cool down due to sweating. But when the body is submerged in water, it cuts down the tendency of cooking by sweat evaporation.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.