Going to the sauna can have many benefits, according to a new study, it can help in the prevention of dementia.

The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland. The researchers found that men who go to a steam bath at least 4-7 times weekly have a 66 percent lower chance of developing dementia compared to those who only go to the sauna once in seven days. The study, which took 20 years to be completed, included over 2,000 middle-aged men residing in eastern Finland.

Like Us on Facebook

The Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study (KIHD) was used by the researchers to determine if steam baths can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of mental deterioration. Three groups were formed, according to the frequency of steam bath use of the participants. The first group use the sauna once a week, the second is two to three times a week, and the last is four to seven times in a week.

The KIHD recently published a study, which claims that steam bath can lower the risk of cardiac problems and mortality associated with cardiovascular issues.

Professor Jari Laukkanen said that, "however, it is known that cardiovascular health affects the brain as well. The sense of well-being and relaxation experienced during sauna bathing may also play a role." The study also mentioned that sweat rooms could protect memory but in "poorly known mechanisms."

Finland is known for the culture of using sweat rooms. For Finns, going to sauna regularly makes them complete as it is believed to help in spiritual and physical cleansing. They also consider the sauna as a place to bond and communicate relevant issues. There are so many steam rooms in the country that it can conveniently welcome the 5.4 million Finnish population all at the same time. These rooms are built inside cottages, public pools, hotels, gyms, apartments, and even buses.

The study linking saunas to a reduction of the risk of dementia was published in the Journal of Age and Ageing.