What Are Some of the Health Benefits of Using a Hot Tub?

Soaking in a hot tub after a long day can be very relaxing. Not only is this practice relaxing, but several other benefits can be reaped from it. Below are some of the additional health benefits that can be obtained from soaking in a hot tub regularly:

Better Sleep

It is estimated that anywhere from 10 to 15 percent of adults have chronic insomnia. Untreated insomnia can increase the risk of heart disease and anxiety. Soaking in a hot tub can help alleviate this problem. The warm water from the hot tub helps a person relax, which can make it easier for him or her to fall and stay asleep.

Alleviate Migraines

Migraines affect approximately eight percent of adults in Canada. Migraines are usually not caused by anything serious, but they can interfere with people’s ability to perform daily tasks. A migraine occurs when the blood vessels in the brain temporarily constrict. The warm water from the hot tub helps the blood vessels dilate, which can help alleviate the pain.

Furthermore, the warm water stimulates the release of endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killers.

Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a problem that affects approximately 25 percent of the adult population. If this problem is left untreated, then it can lead to strokes and heart attacks. Because the warm water from the hot tub helps the blood vessels dilate, it can also lower blood pressure. Furthermore, the water also helps take some of the load off of the heart.

Lower Blood Sugar

Soaking in a hot tub can also help people control their diabetes. There was a study done in Colorado where people with diabetes were asked to soak in a hot tub for 30 minutes a day, six days out of the week. The results of the study were that the subjects’ blood sugar levels dropped by an average of 13 percent.

There was another study done that involved two groups of diabetic patients. One group was asked to soak in a hot tub for 20 minutes for ten days, and the remaining subjects were placed in the control group. The results of the study were that the items which used the hot tubs for ten days had better blood sugar levels than the control group.

When the blood vessels are dilated, it is easier for the blood to transport insulin. That is why researchers believe that soaking in a hot tub can benefit people with diabetes.

Alleviate Muscle Aches and Pains

The warm water from the hot tub helps increase circulation. This helps bring more oxygen and nutrients to the damaged areas. Additionally, the warm water also helps loosen tight muscles.

People who want to improve their health should consider soaking in a hot tub. Pain relief, lower blood pressure, better sleep, and lower blood sugar are just a few of the many benefits that can be reaped from soaking in a hot tub. Those who do not have a hot tub in their home should consider adding one.