Can a 20-minute sauna session offer real benefits to people living with type 2 diabetes?
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Diabetes (Beever, 2010) explored this by tracking the effects of far-infrared sauna use in adults with type 2 diabetes. Participants used a far-infrared sauna three times per week for three months, with each session lasting just 20 minutes.
Key outcomes included:
- Systolic blood pressure dropped significantly—by an average of 6.4 mm Hg (from 124 mm Hg to 118 mm Hg).
- Waist circumference showed a downward trend, with an average reduction of 2.3 cm.
- No adverse effects were reported, and 75% of participants completed the full study.
These results are promising. For people managing type 2 diabetes, even small improvements in blood pressure and abdominal fat can have a meaningful impact on cardiovascular health.
What stands out in this study is not just the measurable health benefits, but the high level of adherence. Compared to more demanding lifestyle interventions, sauna therapy is simple, restorative, and—importantly—something people enjoy. That makes it more likely to be sustained over time.
At SweatLounge, we believe that health practices should be accessible, enjoyable, and rooted in science. Infrared therapy continues to show potential as a powerful, low-barrier tool for improving long-term health in people living with chronic conditions.
Source:
Beever, R. (2010). Do Far-infrared Saunas Have Cardiovascular Benefits in People with Type 2 Diabetes? Canadian Journal of Diabetes, 34(2), 113–118.
