학술논문

Immediate effect of steam bath on blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes: a case series.
Document Type
Academic Journal
Source
Australian Journal of Herbal & Naturopathic Medicine Sep2024; 36(3): 124-128. (5p)
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2209-119X
Abstract
Background Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterised by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Naturopathic medicine, including hydrotherapy, offers a holistic approach to disease management. Steam baths, a hydrotherapeutic intervention, have shown beneficial effects on pulmonary and cardiovascular functions. However, the immediate effects of steam baths on blood glucose levels in T2D patients remain understudied. This case series aims to explore the prompt effects of steam bath on blood glucose levels in individuals with T2D. Methods Three cases of T2D patients were included and underwent a steam bath intervention, where they were exposed to moist heat (except the head and neck) for 8-12 minutes, followed by a 2-minute cold shower. Random plasma glucose levels (RBGL) were measured before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 20 minutes after a supine rest. Results All three cases showed a prompt reduction in random blood glucose levels (mmol/L) after the steam bath intervention. Case 1 demonstrated a decrease from 10.94 to 10.61 (immediately) and 6.77 (after 20 mins). Case 2 showed a decrease from 17.66 to 17.55 (immediately) and 15.94 (after 20 mins). Case 3 exhibited a decrease from 10.61 to 10.33 (after 5 mins) and 6.72 (after 20 mins). Conclusion Steam baths can be used as an adjunctive treatment for reducing blood glucose levels in patients with T2D. Further research with larger sample sizes and continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels is warranted to validate these findings and to explore the duration of the intervention effect.