According to data that was shared in a new study, taking a hot bath for a number of times per week is linked with reduced blood pressure and the risk of developing diabetes.

The study was carried out by the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, where 1,300 individuals took part.

The 1,300 individuals were divided in 3 parts, where 1 group took a hot bath for 1 time per week, the second group anywhere from 1 to 4, and the last one 4 or more times in just one week.

The data that was collected in the study was highly consistent with other findings that were based on the therapeutic benefits of extreme heat.

People who took more hot baths per week had better body weight, diastolic blood pressure, and glycated hemoglobin (a marker of blood sugar).

The study presented in front of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes said that they collected measurements like blood pressure, body mass, and blood tests from the individuals that were taking part.

The highest average risk reductions were seen in people that bathed 4 or more times per week with a minimum duration of 16 minutes.

Improvements in blood sugar, weight, and blood pressure were seen. The fact of age, sex, or medications taken did not affect the study and all had the same results, said the study.

Hisayuki Katsuyama, an MD, said:

Heat therapy, shown here with hot tub bathing, can be one effective therapeutic option for type 2 diabetes in daily life. An alternative form of heat exposure might be nutrition therapy and exercise.

Various forms of heat therapy like hot baths and saunas are recommended as they help reduce body fat levels and improve glycated hemoglobin levels.

However, there is no strong evidence or study data that supports hot water baths as a reliable form of therapy for people that are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.