Immediate Effect of Steam Bath on Body Composition among Obese Individuals: A Case Series

Obesity is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. Standard management strategies include lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery, although complementary approaches are increasingly explored. Naturopathy and hydrotherapy, particularly steam baths, are gaining attention for their potential role in weight management. This case series reports three adults with obesity who underwent steam bath to assess short-term effects on body composition and physiological parameters. Each received, 15-min steam bath followed by a 2-min cold shower. Pre- and postintervention assessments were performed using the multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis. Results showed reductions in body fat (1.3%–2.7%) and fat weight (1.4%–2.5%), with gains in lean mass (up to 1.2%) and basal metabolic rate (0.4%–0.9%). Impedance dropped 2%–3%, while body water increased slightly (0.6%–1.4%), suggesting fluid redistribution. These findings suggest steam bath therapy may provide immediate, supportive benefits in obesity care, warranting larger controlled trials.