Detox Effect of Sweating
Overview
Sweating is a natural process that occurs all over your body to regulate central temperature and get rid of certain toxins.
This process has been known across generations to be essential for healing, recovery, and the prevention of disease.
In this article, we will unveil the reason we sweat, as well as how it detoxifies the body.
Why do we sweat?
The vast majority of the body’s physiological functions occur in a stable core temperature at approximately 98.6°F (37°C).
Any major fluctuation to this temperature can wreak havoc on the body as biochemical reactions, protein folding (i.e., structure), and hemodynamics (i.e., blood circulation) will no longer function optimally.
Since we’re often exposed to environmental factors that interfere with our core temperature (e.g., physical activity, hot/cold environment, infections), the body must regulate this temperature using these methods:
- Sweating
- Brief muscle contractions (i.e., chills)
- Adjusting thermogenesis (i.e., biochemical reactions to produce heat)
You see, when our core temperature rises beyond normal levels, the hypothalamus (a gland located in the brain) will stimulate the sudoriferous glands in your skin to start producing sweat, which then gets evaporated, helping the body cool off.
Aside from temperature regulation, sweating also aids in detoxifying the body from harmful chemicals and substances.
According to scientists, humans’ ability to sweat might be a primary contributing factor to the advances made as a species compared to other animals.
How does sweating help the body?
Heavy metal detoxification
Despite the debate about the efficacy of sweating in clearing out toxins, one study conducted in China found that serum levels of heavy metals were lower in individuals who exercise on a regular basis.
Moreover, if you analyze sweat and urine chemical compositions, you’ll notice that sweat has higher concentrations of heavy metals, which suggests it’s an effective way of detoxifying the body.
Microbial elimination
Bacteria often inhabit your skin as they find a suitable environment (e.g., nutrient-rich, appropriate PH) to grow.
Over time, the growth of bacteria could disrupt the natural symbiosis of the skin flora, predisposing people to skin infections, eczema, psoriasis, and other dermatological conditions.
Unfortunately, most of this process is beyond one’s ability to control it, leaving dietary choices and physical activity (and subsequent sweating) as the only options.
According to a 2015 review, researchers believe that the glycoproteins in sweat bind to these bacteria, which aids in the prevention of skin infections and ulcers.
Chemical extraction
In addition to heavy metals, sweating can also detoxify the body from harmful chemicals.
These include:
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is a chemical that manufacturers use to produce certain plastics and resins.
The chronic exposure to this chemical increases the risk of neurocognitive (e.g., motor function, behavior) abnormalities.
Studies also linked BPA to high blood pressure.
The good news is that sweating is quite effective at removing BPAs from the bloodstream to prevent unnecessary complications.
In fact, healthcare professionals even use sweat analysis to monitor the levels of BPS in the system.
Polychlorinated biphenyls
Polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, are organic chemicals that could precipitate numerous health problems.
In one study, toxicologists confirmed that sweating eliminates certain forms of PCBs, which could protect at-risk individuals from developing serious medical conditions.
Best way to sweat
Exercise is excellent way to sweat, but there is nothing quite like a sweat session in an infrared sauna. Right after the infrared sauna session offered by Atlant Health Wellness, you will feel more relaxed and rested. Additionally, heat helps relieve sore muscles and improves your overall health and well-being. Infrared saunas used in our New York wellness center helps to penetrate at the cellular level.
Takeaway message
Sweating is a fascinating process that allows us to regulate core temperature and detoxify our bodies. Furthermore, the potential benefits of the artificial induction of sweating through sauna and thermotherapy are undeniable.
Hopefully, you enjoyed reading this article and found it informative. If you have any questions about sweating, please don’t hesitate to contact our office by calling (212) 719-3611 or email wellness@atlanthealth.com
