Minimize your heart disease risk by up to 28 percent through appropriate measures
A new study has found that a daily habit, specifically taking a bath, could lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. The study, conducted in Japan and following over 30,000 participants for approximately 19 years, suggests that soaking in the tub each evening before bed could cut the risk of dying due to heart problems by more than a quarter.
The reduction in risk was most likely due to the fact that tub bathing resulted in a lower risk of hypertension. This is because hot water immersion raises core body temperature more effectively than other heat therapies like saunas, leading to increased blood flow and a beneficial shear force on blood vessels, enhancing vascular health. Habitual hot bathing is also associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease, stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage risk.
The specific type of bathing common in Japan, where the body is immersed to the shoulders, may be necessary to leverage the benefits of a daily bath. This immersion triggers stronger physiological responses such as increased heart rate, blood flow, and improved vascular function. Research from the University of Oregon showed that hot water immersion at around 40.5°C raised core body temperature more than traditional or infrared saunas, stimulating an immune response by increasing cytokine levels and modulating immune cells, which may contribute to long-term cardiovascular benefits.
Vitamin K2, often referred to as the "blood pressure vitamin," is another essential nutrient for heart health. It helps move calcium into the proper areas in the body and safeguards elastin, a protein that keeps vessel walls pliable. This vitamin is important for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential nutrients for heart health and can be obtained from fish like salmon and sardines, or through fish oil supplements. Krill oil is a preferred choice due to its purity and high absorption rate. Additionally, taking a supplement of CoQ10 is beneficial, as scientific evidence supports its use, especially for individuals whose levels may be depleted. A complete list of medications that can deplete CoQ10 levels can be found here.
CoQ10 is an essential nutrient that promotes heart health, slows down the effects of aging, and powers trillions of the body's cells. It is especially notable for supporting the heart muscle, but its levels can be depleted by certain medications. All doctors can only offer what to do after a stroke occurs, as 80% of strokes are preventable. A comprehensive guide to understanding stroke, its hidden causes, and preventive measures can be found here.
However, it's important to note that bathing in hot water as you get older can sometimes lead to overheating and confusion, which can be dangerous. So, be sure to gauge the temperature that works best for you.
In summary, the cardiovascular benefit of daily hot bathing appears to stem from its ability to raise core temperature and blood flow, improving vascular function and reducing risk factors for heart disease and stroke, while also engaging the immune system in a protective way. This makes it a promising passive heat therapy for cardiovascular health.
- For optimal heart health, consider supplementing with Vitamin K2, often called the "blood pressure vitamin," as it aids in calcium distribution for heart health and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for heart health and can be obtained from fish like salmon and sardines or through fish oil supplements, or a preferred choice like krill oil for its purity and high absorption rate.
- While a daily hot bath may improve heart health by raising core temperature and blood flow, it's important to be aware of potential risks, such as overheating and confusion, especially for older adults. To mitigate these risks, always gauge the temperature that works best for your personal comfort.
