Rhonda Perciavalle Patrick has done extensive research on aging, cancer, and nutrition. She is a Ph.D. in biomedical science from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She also has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in biochemistry/chemistry from the University of California, San Diego.

Exercise promotes the release of insulin-like growth factor-1 and its downstream targets, growth hormone and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, to drive muscle and neuron growth. Sauna use increases these factors, too, and when used post-exercise, may have a synergistic effect to improve cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological health. Strength training, however, may have deleterious effects on arterial compliance, a critical aspect of cardiovascular health.

Sauna questions answered with expert Dr. Rhonda Patrick: Infrared vs traditional saunas? Can sauna bathing lower the risk of dementia, heart disease, stroke, depression, and all-cause mortality? How exactly should we use saunas for optimal benefit (duration, frequency, temperature, etc.)?

In this interview with Jari Laukkanen, MD, Ph.D., Head of the Cardiology Department at the University of Eastern Finland, we explore his fascinating findings looking at the difference in brain health in men who frequently take a dry hot sauna compared to those who sauna less frequently. If these results came from a new pill, it would be called a miracle.

In response to cold-water immersion and similar techniques like cryotherapy, the body increases circulation of norepinephrine. This physiological response sets off a cascade of adaptive effects with extreme rapidity that affects metabolism, the brain, and genetic expression.