Alcohol Consumption When Using a Barrel Sauna

Spending time in a sauna has a variety of health benefits. It's also an excellent way to relax after a long day. Some associate the idea of unwinding with consuming a glass or two of their favorite wine. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a tipple, drinking in a sauna may not be such a great idea.

Here's why saunas and alcohol consumption are not a good fit.

How does alcohol affect the body in a sauna?

Some people swear by a sauna visit to get rid of a hangover. It has also been suggested that the heated room cancels out the effects of alcohol. The claim is that the body absorbs water in the sauna while the detoxifying effects of the experience flush out the alcohol. Both viewpoints are incorrect.

Below are some of the adverse effects of consuming alcohol in a sauna.

Dehydration

The sauna intensifies the effects of alcohol. Boozy drinks cause dehydration, and so does spending time in a sauna. Therefore, drinking in a heated room aggravates dehydration. It's important to note that dehydration can lead to heatstroke.

Toxin retention

The body retains the toxins ingested when drinking alcohol. This retention happens regardless of the detoxification effect of the sauna. Sauna detoxification occurs when impurities in the pores are flushed out by heat and sweat. Because alcohol and its contents are absorbed into the bloodstream, the sauna's heat cannot remove alcohol toxins from the body.

Toxins present in the blood from boozy drinks can increase blood pressure, which may be dangerous to those with cardiovascular conditions.

Physical injury

The sauna intensifies alcohol's effects on the body, meaning that the alcohol may have a more profound impact. Drunkenness could lead to physical injuries like burns from hot sauna rocks. Therefore, it would be better not to drink until it is safe to do so.

Can alcohol be consumed before a sauna visit?

Many health clubs and spas don't allow alcohol in their saunas. Unfortunately, some people may attempt to game the system by drinking before visiting the facilities. While this may seem like a clever workaround, consuming alcohol before using a sauna can still be dangerous.

Alcohol does not leave the system immediately. The effects of a boozy beverage will last for several hours, including dehydration. Therefore, alcohol will still negatively affect the body even when consumed ahead of the sauna experience.

What beverages are safe to consume in a sauna?

Sitting in a sauna causes dehydration. Therefore, it is advisable to drink two glasses of water beforehand. Fruit juices or rehydration solutions are also good options to take into a heated room.

Ditch the alcohol

Saunas are known to have detoxification effects that are beneficial for health. However, it is essential to stay well informed on the beverages that can be safely consumed when using one.