The Hot Tub Diet: Does a Hot Tub Burn Calories?

Heard on the grapevine that lounging in a hot tub does way more than relax muscles and calm the mind? If you’re wondering how much truth is behind the question, does a hot tub burn calories, you’ll be enlightened as you read on, joining us as we explore whether there is actually any evidence to support the phenomenon of the ‘hot tub diet’.

The truth about hot bath weight loss

Whenever there’s a sweeping statement made, such as does a hot tub burn calories, it’s important to turn to science for a backed-up answer. And the good news is, when it comes to the hot tub diet and hot tub weight loss, there is actually scientific evidence to support it.

So, do hot tubs help you lose weight? Yes, according to a 2017 study by Dr Faulkner at Loughborough University. The study suggests a one-hour hot tub session can burn the same number of calories as a 30-minute walk. Now that’s 140 calories, which is quite impressive when you’re simply sitting back and relaxing.

The same study found that bathing in a hot tub was actually more effective at reducing blood sugar levels than cycling. It concluded that hot bathing improves the body’s anti-inflammatory response, which is a similar response to that of exercise.

How does a hot tub burn calories?

The scientific explanation is that when you relax in a hot tub, your body temperature rises above normal, just the same as it does when you exercise. When your body temperature goes up, you have to work harder to maintain the right internal temperature. So your body produces ‘heat shock proteins’, which accelerate your ability to burn fat.

Of course, your ability to burn calories or fat and how many calories you’ll be able to burn in a hot tub will always be influenced by external factors, not least whether you are indulging in a bite to eat or a drink whilst bathing! It is, therefore, best to look at the indirect ways in which a hot tub diet can work.

Reduces stress

Too much stress can cause a spike in cortisol levels in the blood. Known as the stress hormone, cortisol is known to indirectly cause weight gain. It is thought to induce cravings for food that’s high in sodium and fat, and has been associated with stimulating the body’s fat storage mechanisms, especially around the mid-section.

Cortisol has also been found to lower the production of testosterone, which is vital for the creation of muscle fibre. Muscle burns more calories than other types of body tissue, so the less muscle you have, the harder it is for your body to burn calories.

Spending time in a hot tub is the ultimate way to relax and get those stress levels down. The warm water of the tub aids relaxation, and boosts the mood. Massage jets soothe tired muscles and ease tension. As your body starts to relax, so your mental stress begins to lift.

Improves sleep

Sleep is massively important when it comes to your ability to burn calories. Insomnia and other sleep disorders are known to elevate cortisol production, which we now know can create weight gain.

Another hormone caused by a lack of sleep is leptin. This hormone controls feelings of satiation. Lower leptin levels caused by sleep deprivation can induce overeating.

Poor sleep patterns can also cause problems within the body at a cellular level, reducing metabolism and preventing the breakdown of sugars.

Spending time relaxing in a hot tub ahead of going to bed can help you nod off faster, and promote a longer, deeper, more undisturbed sleep all night long. Better sleep equals better metabolism.

Complements exercise

A soak in a hot tub is the ideal partner for exercise. It helps to prepare your body for physical activity, and can provide the perfect place to warm up too. Jogging underwater or doing some gentle yoga moves are good ways to start a workout. The buoyancy and resistance of the water make your warm-up low-impact, which is helpful if you have limited mobility or are recovering from an injury.

What’s more, spending time in a hot tub boosts motivation. With reduced anxiety comes improved concentration, preparing you to push yourself during your workout and burn more calories.

Interested in discovering whether a hot tub diet will work for you? Visit Hydropool Surrey.

Does being in a hot tub burn calories? Well even if it doesn’t do so directly, there are plenty of ways in which a home spa could help you lead a healthier life and perhaps help you burn calories indirectly.

If you are considering investing in a hot tub to burn calories and achieve a healthier lifestyle, look to Hydropool Surrey. Our comprehensive range of superior quality self-cleaning hot tubs and Serenity hot tubs are designed to deliver the ultimate relaxation experience, for stress-busting health benefits.

To learn more about our range and hot tub weight loss, you are welcome to contact us, or make an appointment to try a hot tub out for yourself in private at our purpose built showroom in Addlestone, Surrey. We look forward to seeing you.