Dr Rhonda Patrick Micronutrients For Health Longevity

At a Glance

• Sauna Benefits - “I prefer regular saunas…the heat stress itself, like that your heart rate is elevating when you’re in there.” The conversation highlights the importance of heat stress and its benefits for cardiovascular health.

• Infrared Sauna Limitations - “And it does take a really long time to get at the very end” Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses the limitations of infrared saunas, which may not provide the same level of heat stress as traditional saunas.

• New Protocols and Questions - “I now have my notes are always look a little bit like they were drawn out by a Macakmonkey who has no knowledge of the English language, but I can decipher this to tell you that there are at least 10 additions to my current protocols” The host expresses excitement about adding new protocols and asks questions based on Dr. Patrick’s discussion.

What to Do

• Incorporate heat stress into your routine - “Heat stress itself is really good for you… it’s a great way to get cardiovascular benefits, it’s a great way to feel like you’re pushing yourself.”

• Be consistent with your sauna or heat stress routine - “I think that’s the key, is just doing it regularly… it takes time for your body to adapt.”

• Consider infrared saunas as an alternative to traditional saunas - “They are more affordable, they’re less of a fire hazard… but again, hot baths are a good alternative modality for heat stress compared to a regular sauna.”

• Don’t neglect the importance of ambient temperature when using infrared saunas - “The main difference is that you’re heating your body up through thermal radiation versus the ambient air.”

• Prioritize traditional saunas over infrared saunas if possible - “I prefer regular saunas… most of the data out there is from heat stress itself, like your heart rate is elevating when you’re in there.”

• Consider adding heat stress to your existing health and wellness routine - “I now have my notes that are always look a little bit like they were drawn out by a Macakmonkey who has no knowledge of the English language… but I can decipher this to tell you that there are at least 10 additions to my current protocols that I’m going to add.”

What to Get

• Sauna - Amazon - Alternative modality for heat stress, more affordable, less of a fire hazard compared to regular saunas

• Hot Bath - Good alternative modality for heat stress compared to regular saunas

• Red Light Therapy Devices - Amazon - Not used in the sauna but mentioned as an additional modality

Summary

The latest episode of the Huberman Lab podcast features Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a renowned expert on various health-related topics. The conversation starts with Dr. Patrick discussing her take on infrared saunas versus traditional hot saunas. She notes that while both types of saunas can provide some benefits, she prefers regular hot saunas as they provide a more intense heat stress response, which can lead to increased cardiovascular benefits.

Dr. Patrick explains that the main difference between infrared and hot saunas is how heat is transferred to the body. Infrared saunas use thermal radiation to warm up the body, whereas hot saunas rely on convection and conduction to achieve the same effect. This subtle difference in mechanism can impact the user’s experience and physiological response.

Dr. Patrick also mentions that infrared saunas are more affordable and have fewer safety concerns compared to traditional hot saunas. However, she emphasizes that hot baths can be a good alternative for achieving heat stress benefits without some of the drawbacks associated with saunas.

One of the most interesting points discussed in this episode is Dr. Patrick’s perspective on red light therapy, which she has written about extensively. While not directly related to saunas, red light therapy is mentioned as a tool that can complement sauna use and provide additional health benefits.

The conversation also touches on a specific temperature threshold (174°F) used in various studies examining the effects of heat stress. Dr. Patrick notes that this temperature point is particularly relevant when considering the potential benefits of sauna use.

Throughout the episode, it’s clear that Dr. Patrick has given considerable thought to her opinions and is willing to share them with her audience. The conversation between the two individuals flows smoothly, making for an engaging listen.

For those interested in learning more about Dr. Patrick’s work or following up on some of the topics discussed during this episode, there are several resources mentioned at the end of the podcast, including her newsletter and a link to her excellent podcast series.