This is probably the case for a lot of health issues.
But we always want a pill that will fix the issues while allowing us not to change our habits.
Saw a study recently that showed broad, dose dependent health effects.
Personally it really seems to help when I’m overloaded with stress, in a direct immediate way.
Sauna is fun, but it's not a panacea. It can't replace exercise, for example.
In any case, how long does sauna's supposed deleterious effect last? Probably not more than a few days?
I use sauna 20 minutes per day about 5 times per week (helps to have a small one in the home. Don’t get infrared if you get one).
I would not call it pleasant. If done correctly, your heart rate is elevated (130-135 bpm for me), and you are sweating profusely.
I can imagine it's kind of like being a parent or manager. After advising perfect behavior and rarely getting it, you give up and settle for easy, less perfect but achievable advice.
does doctors prescribing lifestyle change have any noticeable effects though. I assume everyone already knows they need to 'eat better and exercise'. I am not convinced that doctor telling them this will finally make it sink in for anyone.
Also, most doctors have layman level understanding of nutrition and excercise and many of them are not in best shape themselves.