Ice baths and cryotherapy have become increasingly popular wellness trends in South Africa, and around the globe, but what are the real benefits of cold exposure? We’ve got the answers.
Let’s explore the obvious questions surrounding health benefits linked to cold exposure:
How does cold exposure improve circulation?
Cold exposure can cause ‘vasoconstriction’ (narrowing of blood vessels) initially, followed by ‘vasodilation’ (widening of blood vessels), which helps to improve circulation. Studies have shown that cold exposure can increase blood flow to peripheral tissues and organs.
A study found that exposure to cold temperatures led to increased blood flow to the skin and peripheral tissues, indicating improved circulation.
Can cold exposure boost immune function?
Cold exposure has been shown to activate the body’s immune response by increasing the production of white blood cells and boosting the activity of immune cells such as natural killer cells. This can potentially enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections.
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Research published in the journal PLoS One demonstrated that cold exposure increased the number and activity of white blood cells in healthy individuals, suggesting an immune-boosting effect.
Does cold exposure increase energy levels?
Exposure to cold temperatures stimulates the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones that increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. This can lead to heightened alertness and improved cognitive function.
A study published in the journal Physiology & Behavior showed that cold exposure led to increased levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline in participants, resulting in improved alertness and cognitive performance.
Is cold exposure effective for reducing inflammation?
Cold therapy has been demonstrated to reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels and decreasing the production of inflammatory mediators. This can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and muscle soreness.
Research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology showed that cold exposure significantly reduced markers of inflammation in athletes, indicating its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
Does cold exposure contribute to weight loss?
Cold exposure stimulates the activation of brown adipose tissue (BAT), a type of fat that burns calories to generate heat. Increasing BAT activity through cold exposure can potentially contribute to weight loss
Research has demonstrated that exposure to cold temperatures increased BAT activity and energy expenditure in participants, suggesting a role in weight management.
How can cold exposure enhance recovery from exercise?
Cold therapy, such as ice baths or cryotherapy, has been widely used by athletes to accelerate recovery from intense workouts or injuries by reducing muscle soreness and inflammation.
A systematic review concluded that cold-water immersion was effective in reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
