Can Hot Tubs Help Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms?
Diabetes can cause many issues, and many diabetics have circulatory problems, and since hot tubs encourage increased blood flow, they may help!
The American Diabetes Association recommends daily exercise, yet rigorous exercise is often difficult.
The buoyancy of water in a hot tub can make exercise easier. It also promotes better circulation and blood flow. Hydrotherapy has long been known to help treat and provide relief from many different ailments. In fact, the ancient Romans and the ancient Egyptians held hydrotherapy in high esteem.
Today, doctors and therapists use hydrotherapy in sports medicine and physical therapy. Plus, we know that soaking in a hot tub relaxes and relieves our aches and pains.
Today, we ask the question, “Can hot tubs help Type 2 Diabetes symptoms?” We’ll uncover some facts and look at the possibilities. If you’ve wondered if a dip in the hot tub can help with your blood sugar levels, we’ll discuss it here.
The Study
According to a pilot study at McKee Medical Center in Loveland, Colorado, which was published in The New England Journal of Medicine, suggests hot tubs may have positive effects on those who have Type 2 diabetes.
During the study, eight diabetics soaked in a hot tub for 30 minutes, six days a week for three weeks. As a result, many of the diabetic participants noticed positive effects from the hot tub therapy. The noticed weight loss, reduced blood sugar levels and improved sleep.
They came to the conclusion that the effects of hydrotherapy on Type 2 Diabetes merits further study due to the positive results. They also deduced hydrotherapy would be very beneficial for patients who were unable to exercise.
The Benefits
The study found that the patients’ average blood glucose levels were reduced. They noted that one person even lowered his daily insulin dosage by 18%! Patients also lost an average of more than three pounds, which is helpful when it comes to treating Type 2 Diabetes.
What’s more, the patients who took part in the study said they slept better and had a better sense of well-being. This was most likely due to the relaxation benefits from hydrotherapy. Their added 30 minutes of soaking time was time well spent, relaxing and unwinding from their busy days.
A Note
Please consult your doctor before soaking in a hot tub to make sure it is safe for you. This is especially recommended for people with diabetes and those who may also suffer from nerve damage. You want to have a doctor’s approval before soaking for the first time.
Once your doctor gives you the go-ahead, be careful when getting out of the hot tub because the relaxation benefits of the hot tub can lower your blood pressure. It’s best to get in and out of the hot tub with assistance.
Ready to experience the best hot tub benefits? Connect with us today and set up your test soak, or drop us a note, and we’ll get back to you to answer all of your questions!
