Two studies out of Finland show promising results for sauna users. The research implies there could be an added benefit to sweating profusely in the controlled setting of a sauna: a decrease in one’s risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Dr. Deepak Nair, director of Ambulatory and Virtual Neurology Services at OSF HealthCare, studied the findings and says the results are promising.

Both sauna study conclusions admit that more research needs to be done on a larger scale, and Dr. Nair agrees. He recommends people consult their primary care physician first about sauna use and if it’s right for them, and adds that sustainable, healthy choices are extremely important.