Are you considering buying an infrared sauna for your home, but feeling overwhelmed with all the different options available and unsure about safety considerations? We’re here to help!
In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about EMFs before you invest in a new infrared sauna and how to choose the perfect low emf infrared sauna for your wellness journey.
What is an EMF?
EMF stands for electromagnetic field, which is a type of energy that is created by electrically charged objects. Electromagnetic fields are all around us, generated by everything from household appliances to power lines and cell phones. While they are a natural part of our environment, there has been growing concern about the potential health effects of prolonged exposure to certain types of EMFs.
This is where infrared saunas come in - they use a specific type of EMF known as far-infrared radiation to heat the body.
Far-infrared radiation is a specific segment of the electromagnetic spectrum, characterized by wavelengths ranging from 15 micrometers to 1 millimeter. Unlike ultraviolet radiation, which can have harmful effects on the human body, far-infrared radiation is entirely safe and is even used in various therapeutic applications. Far-infrared radiation generates heat that deeply penetrates our skin, stimulating perspiration and offering a multitude of health benefits. In the context of infrared saunas, the heat emitted by far-infrared radiation directly heats the body without excessively warming the air around you, making for a more comfortable and beneficial sauna experience.
What is Far-Infrared Radiation?
Far-infrared radiation, also known as FIR, is a specific type of electromagnetic radiation that has longer wavelengths than visible light. It lies within the infrared spectrum of light, which is not visible to the naked eye.
In the context of infrared saunas, "far-infrared" refers to the specific range of infrared radiation emitted by the heating elements in these saunas. This range usually falls between 5.6 and 15 micrometers in wavelength.
The importance of far-infrared radiation lies in its ability to penetrate the skin more deeply compared to other types of infrared radiation.
This deeper penetration is believed to offer various potential health benefits, including:
- Increased Circulation: Far infrared radiation can stimulate blood flow and promote better circulation, which can be beneficial for overall cardiovascular health.
- Detoxification: Increased sweating resulting from FIR can aid in the elimination of toxins from the body.
- Pain Relief: Studies suggest that exposure to FIR can alleviate muscle and joint pain.
- Relaxation and Stress Reduction: The gentle warmth of far infrared radiation can induce relaxation, reduce stress, and promote well-being.
- Improved Skin Health: FIR can help maintain healthy skin by stimulating collagen production and aiding in cellular repair.
It's important to note that while there is some scientific evidence supporting these potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of FIR's effects on the body.
Scientific Evidence
For a long time, skeptics didn't believe that the EMF generated by electronics could affect our bodies. They argued that it was "non-ionizing" and lacked the power to disrupt molecules.
However, recent studies have shown that EMFs do impact our cells by increasing the levels of calcium almost instantly [1, 6-9, 15, 16].
This boost in calcium can be reversed when cells are treated with blockers such as verapamil [6, 9]. Many studies have confirmed that calcium plays a crucial role in this process.
It appears that EMFs activate voltage-gated calcium channels in our cells directly. This underlines the importance of choosing a truly low-EMF infrared sauna that cares for both your body and soul, for your well-being.
EMF & Cellular Dysfunction In Rats
In our bodies, voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) are most abundant in neurons, neuroendocrine cells, and various muscle types, including heart muscles and smooth muscles [10]. Studies on mice exposed to EMFs showed the most significant effects in the central nervous system, heart, and testes, aligning with VGCC distribution [10].
Calcium plays a crucial role in signaling for neurons and hormone-releasing cells. It triggers the release of neurotransmitters or hormones. However, when VGCCs are disrupted, it leads to erratic neural signaling. Initially, there's an increase in neurotransmitter release, but then a decrease in synaptic transmission as cells adjust receptors and synapses.
In rats exposed to high EMF levels, tissues displayed alterations. Nerve cells were smaller than usual, with synapses bearing notable damage [10]. This highlights the intricate interplay between EMFs and our cellular functions.
Results: Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
"Neuropsychiatric disorder is a blanket medical term that encompasses a broad range of medical conditions that involve both neurology and psychiatry. Common neuropsychiatric disorders include seizures. attention deficit disorders. cognitive deficit disorders [26]."
Electromagnetic field exposure and its link to neuropsychiatric symptoms have been studied since the 1950s and 1960s. In 1972, the Naval Medical Research Institute conducted a comprehensive study that cataloged 40 neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with professional exposure to microwave/radiofrequency EMFs, drawing from over 2300 studies.
NASA's 1981 report also echoed these findings, identifying 19 similar symptoms and noting that EMF exposure is linked to EEG alterations. By the 1990s, these symptoms earned the name "microwave syndrome," which included sleep disruptions, headaches, emotional shifts like depression and anxiety, fatigue, focus issues, memory fluctuations, nausea, and numbness.
Cellular phone usage amplified these concerns, and more recent studies have reaffirmed and broadened our understanding of these symptoms.
In a cross-sectional study, individuals residing near mobile phone bases experienced significantly higher rates of headaches, memory issues, sleep problems, tremors, dizziness, and symptoms of depression.
A low-EMF infrared sauna can provide relief from these challenges, but it is important to note that excessive EMF levels can undermine the benefits of infrared therapy.
Results: Oxidative Damage
Calcium plays a crucial role as a signal in our cells. It triggers reactions that generate peroxynitrite, a potent free radical.
This leads to the production of more free radicals, elevating cellular oxidative stress [6,7,10-12].
Oxidative stress directly harms vital cell components like membranes, proteins, and even DNA strands.
This damage is associated with cell aging and age-related diseases, including atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative conditions, and cancer.
When investing in an infrared sauna for health benefits, it's crucial to avoid products that could potentially cause this type of cellular harm.
Oxidative Stress & Cancer
DNA damage from oxidative stress and aging is linked to cancer.
Studies associate EMF exposure with an increased risk of childhood leukemia, lymphomas, brain, breast, and thyroid cancers. [13-15].
Animal research reinforces this, showing higher cancer rates in EMF-exposed rats, especially with other carcinogens [13,14]. In 2011, the IARC labeled RF EMF a 'possible' human carcinogen, but many scientists argue for a higher classification due to mounting evidence.
Health Risks Summary
- Sleep disruptions
- Headaches
- Emotional shifts (depression and anxiety)
- Fatigue
- Focus issues
- Memory fluctuations
- Nausea
- Numbness
-seizures
-attention deficit disorders.
- Smaller nerve cells
- Damage to synapses
- DNA strand breakage
- Damage to cell membranes and proteins
- Oxidative damage linked to cell aging and age-related diseases (atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative conditions, cancer)
- Childhood leukemia
- Lymphomas
- Brain cancers (glioma, schwannoma, medulloblastoma)
- Breast cancer
- Thyroid cancer
-Higher cancer rates observed in rats exposed to EMF, particularly when combined with other known carcinogens.
-RF EMF classified as a "possible" human carcinogen
Science-Backed Research Conclusion
Based on the extensive body of evidence presented, it is crucial to approach exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) with informed caution.
EMFs have a multifaceted influence on our physiology, ranging from their immediate impact on cellular calcium levels to their potential long-term repercussions.
The heightened cancer risk, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and cellular changes that EMFs can cause underscore the need for vigilant consideration of EMF sources in our environment.
Additionally, the oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by EMFs highlight the importance of selecting products that prioritize our cellular well-being, such as low-EMF infrared saunas.
With mounting scientific consensus urging greater awareness, it becomes imperative to strike a balance between the conveniences of modern technology and the preservation of our long-term health.
The Current State Of Government Regulation on EMF and "Low EMF" Infrared Saunas
In light of mounting evidence concerning the potential dangers of EMFs, there's a pressing plea from scientists to government agencies for the implementation of stringent safety guidelines to curb public exposure [13,15,16].
Petitions, endorsed by numerous scientists, have sought revisions in recommended exposure limits. Recently, 206 international scientists collectively advocated for In recent times, mounting evidence has emerged concerning the potential dangers of electromagnetic fields (EMFs).
This has led scientists to plead with government agencies to implement stringent safety guidelines to curb public exposure [13,15,16]. Numerous petitions, endorsed by scientists, have sought revisions in recommended exposure limits.
More recently, 206 international scientists collectively advocated for enhanced safety standards in a statement addressed to the United Nations Secretary-General and member states.
The statement emphasized the inadequacy of current international guidelines [16]. This situation is not new in history, where what is now recognized as harmful was once overlooked by official regulations.
Notably, there is currently no mandate for infrared sauna manufacturers to produce low EMF models, and enhanced safety standards in a statement addressed to the United Nations Secretary-General and member states, emphasizing the inadequacy of current international guidelines [16].
It's a familiar scenario in history - where what's now recognized as harmful was once overlooked by official regulations. Notably, there's presently no mandate for infrared sauna manufacturers to produce low EMF models.
How to Pick A True Low EMF Infrared Sauna
When selecting an infrared sauna, it is vital to choose a model from a manufacturer that places a high priority on low EMF production. This consideration is of utmost importance to ensure the optimal experience and well-being.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
- Research Reputable Brands: Start by researching well-known and reputable sauna manufacturers. Look for companies with a track record of producing high-quality, low-EMF saunas.
- EMF Certification: Some manufacturers voluntarily submit their saunas for EMF testing and certification. Look for saunas that have been tested and certified by reputable third-party organizations.
- Transparent EMF Information: Look for manufacturers that provide transparent and detailed information about the EMF levels of their saunas. This demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety and transparency.
- Compare Specifications: Compare the EMF specifications of different sauna models. Look for lower readings in both electric fields (EF) and magnetic fields (MF), as measured in milligauss (mG).
- Consider Far Infrared vs. Near Infrared: Far-infrared saunas tend to produce lower EMF levels compared to near-infrared saunas. If EMF exposure is a significant concern for you, prioritize far infrared models.
EMF Certifications
One of the most reliable ways to ensure that an infrared sauna has low EMF levels is to look for models that have been tested and certified by reputable third-party organizations. These certifications demonstrate a manufacturer's commitment to providing a safe and low EMF sauna experience.
Here are some notable certifications to look for:
UL Certification: The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a globally recognized organization that tests and certifies various products for safety and performance. When a sauna bears the UL certification mark, it signifies that it has undergone rigorous testing to meet specific safety standards, including EMF emissions.
TÜV Certification: TÜV is a leading international certification body that conducts independent testing and certification of products. Saunas with TÜV certification have been evaluated for compliance with safety and quality standards, including EMF levels.
Intertek ETL Certification: Intertek is another well-respected global certification company. Saunas with ETL certification have been independently tested and found to meet specific safety and performance standards, including those related to EMF emissions.
CE Marking: The CE marking indicates that a product complies with European Union safety standards. While it doesn't specifically focus on EMF levels, it ensures that the sauna meets a range of safety requirements, which indirectly includes considerations for electromagnetic emissions.
FCC Compliance: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets regulations for electromagnetic interference (EMI) for electronic devices. While primarily aimed at electronics, this compliance can indirectly influence EMF emissions in electronic components of saunas.
A Closer Look Into Our Top-Selling Infrared Saunas
Dynamic, Maxxus, and Golden Designs are among the most popular sauna brands in the United States and our store. These brands excel not only in price but also in quality. While they may not offer all the features of the pricier options, they are crafted from durable Canadian Hemlock Fir, this ensures longevity and resistance to warping.
Operating on the Far-Infrared spectrum, these saunas boast a heater comprised of both carbon fiber and ceramic elements. This unique combination guarantees even and efficient heat distribution throughout the sauna. Although they may not provide extensive customization options, they do come with a solid 5-year warranty, offering peace of mind to potential buyers.
Additionally, these saunas hold prestigious certifications from international bodies such as ISO, ETL, and CE, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety and quality standards. Notably, they are thoughtfully designed with low EMF emissions, prioritizing the safety of users.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the United States has previously put forth a safety standard of 3 mG. According to this standard, readings below 3 mG are considered safe.
