Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Sweat Away A Cold?

A Sauna or steam bath might just be the route to go to prevent cold or flu viruses. A 1989 German study found that people who used a sauna got half as many colds as those who didn't. One theory is that when you inhale air that is hotter than 80 degrees, it's too hot for the cold and flu viruses to survive.

Dr. Andrew Weil, also believes a sauna is a great way to sweat out the toxins and also improve general circulation. He cites a Finnish belief that says a sauna can produce a quart of sweat per hour.

People who have high blood pressure or heart disease should check with a physician before using a sauna.