**Boise's Sauna: City Water Stealing Liver Enzymes?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dry heat hits you like a wall as you step into the sauna at the YMCA in downtown Boise. Beads of sweat instantly form, and you settle onto the cedar bench, hoping to sweat out the stress of the day. But what if that sweat isn’t just stress leaving your body? What if something else is getting in?
The concern is real: could frequent sauna use in Boise, utilizing city water, be contributing to elevated liver enzymes due to the absorption of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) like trihalomethanes (THMs)? It’s a question worth exploring, especially for those of us who enjoy a good sweat session. Let’s dive into the science, the risks, and, most importantly, what you can do to protect yourself.
Boise’s water, like most municipal water supplies, is treated with chlorine to kill harmful bacteria. This process, while essential for public health, can create DBPs when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water. THMs are a common type of DBP, and they’re volatile, meaning they easily evaporate into the air, especially in the high heat of a sauna.
The primary concern is that these THMs can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled into the lungs during sauna use. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to high levels of THMs can potentially lead to liver damage, reflected in elevated liver enzyme levels in blood tests. This is where the Boise-specific concern arises: are we, through our well-intentioned efforts to detoxify in the sauna, inadvertently exposing ourselves to a different kind of toxin?
The answer, like most things in science, is nuanced. The risk isn’t necessarily high for everyone, but it’s worth understanding and mitigating, especially if you’re a frequent sauna user in Boise.
So, how do you protect yourself? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Know Your Water: Contact the Boise City Department of Public Works to obtain the latest water quality report. This report will detail the levels of THMs and other DBPs in the city’s water supply. Understanding the baseline levels is crucial.
Consider Water Filtration: This is arguably the most effective step. A whole-house water filtration system that specifically targets THMs can significantly reduce your exposure. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for THM reduction. These filters often use activated carbon to absorb the DBPs. A common mistake is to only filter drinking water. Remember, you’re absorbing these chemicals through your skin and lungs.
Optimize Sauna Duration: The longer you’re in the sauna, the greater your exposure. Limit your sessions to 15-20 minutes, especially if you’re concerned about THMs. Shorter, more frequent sessions might be a safer alternative to longer, less frequent ones.
Hydrate Strategically: Boise’s dry climate already puts you at risk of dehydration. Sauna use exacerbates this. Before, during (if possible), and after your sauna session, drink plenty of water. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to replenish those lost through sweat. Look for electrolyte powders or tablets that are low in sugar and artificial sweeteners. A simple homemade solution is a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon in your water.
Ventilation is Key: Ensure the sauna is well-ventilated. This helps to reduce the concentration of THMs in the air. Open a window or door slightly during your session, if possible. If you’re using a public sauna, inquire about their ventilation practices.
Shower Smart: Showering before entering the sauna can help remove lotions, soaps, and other organic matter from your skin, reducing the potential for THM formation. Showering after helps wash away any absorbed chemicals. Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap to avoid adding more chemicals to your skin.
Monitor Liver Enzyme Levels: If you’re a frequent sauna user and concerned about THM exposure, talk to your doctor about getting your liver enzyme levels checked. A simple blood test can reveal any abnormalities. Early detection is key to preventing serious liver damage. Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke’s, Boise’s major healthcare providers, routinely offer these tests.
Consider Alternative Sauna Options: If you’re particularly concerned, explore infrared saunas. These saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly, rather than heating the air. This can reduce the amount of THMs released into the air.
Be Mindful of Water Source: If you have the option, consider using a sauna that uses well water instead of city water. Well water is typically not treated with chlorine and therefore doesn’t contain THMs. However, well water can have its own set of potential contaminants, so it’s important to have it tested regularly.
Advocate for Change: Contact your local city council members and advocate for improved water treatment processes that minimize DBP formation. This is a long-term solution, but it can benefit the entire community.
A common pitfall is assuming that because Boise’s water is “safe” according to EPA standards, there’s no risk. EPA standards are based on long-term exposure limits, not necessarily the acute exposure you might experience in a sauna. Another mistake is relying solely on anecdotal evidence. Just because your friend hasn’t experienced any problems doesn’t mean you won’t.
The challenge lies in balancing the benefits of sauna use with the potential risks of THM exposure. By taking proactive steps to mitigate these risks, you can continue to enjoy the relaxing and detoxifying benefits of sauna use without compromising your health. Remember, knowledge is power. By understanding the potential risks and taking steps to protect yourself, you can make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
This isn’t about fear-mongering; it’s about being informed and proactive. Boise is a fantastic place to live, and enjoying the local amenities, including saunas, is part of what makes it great. Let’s just make sure we’re doing it safely.