Over the last decade, going to the sauna has become all the rage in Uganda, but debate continues to rage as to whether there's health value to derive from this activity. According to saunafin.com, a 10-20 minute session in the sauna increases the heart rate by 50-75%, which in turn increases the metabolic rate. That means physical exercise.

However, most Ugandan sauna-goers remain portly because they gorge themselves on fatty food after the sauna has done its good work. Because of an increased blood flow while in the sauna, one acquires better skin as the nutrients needed to make this happen are circulated to the skin through the blood. Besides, the heat causes sweating which leads to cleansing of the skin by opening up the skin pores.

The sweat also helps to ward off severe symptoms of colds or flu. A fever status (skin temperature rises up to 40 degrees centigrade) takes over the body when one visits the sauna and this helps to boost one's immunity. Fever aids the healing process and when this is induced by the sauna, the body reacts by releasing antibodies which in turn boost the immune system.

For the women, the sauna promotes better health and well being through improved oestrogen levels.

Other benefits of the sauna include: relief from pain, stiffness and arthritis, revival of tired and strained muscles. The steam is particularly good for respiratory problems such as chest congestion, bronchitis, laryngitis and sinusitis.

Dr. Steven Awumbu, a specialist on Ear, Nose and Throat issues, confirms that this is true of saunas. However, they only provide relief, but do not heal. It is inadvisable to stay in the sauna for more than 20 minutes and one should take water at every break from the sauna so as not to get dehydrated.