We all know how refreshing a cold shower can be on a hot summer’s day. But did you know that cold showers are actually good for you?
There is some evidence to suggest that cold showers can help to improve circulation, relieve muscle pain, boost immunity and even improve your mood.
Here’s a closer look at the evidence behind some of the benefits of cold showers:
1. Improve circulation
Cold water can help to improve circulation by constricting blood vessels and increasing blood flow. This can be beneficial for people who suffer from conditions like Raynaud’s disease, which causes poor blood circulation to the extremities.
2. Relieve muscle pain
Cold showers can also help to relieve muscle pain. The cold water constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation, which can help to ease pain and discomfort.
3. Boost immunity
In one study, people who took cold showers had a lower risk of developing a cold or the flu. The cold water can help to boost immunity by stimulating the body’s production of white blood cells.
4. Improve mood
Cold showers can also improve your mood. The shock of the cold water can help to release endorphins, which are the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.
So, there you have it. The evidence is there to show that cold showers are good for you. So, next time you’re feeling hot and sweaty, maybe reach for the cold water instead of the hot water tap!
It seems like every other day there’s a new health trend that we’re being told to follow. From cutting out sugar to drinking more water, it can be hard to keep up. However, there’s one trend that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon – cold showers.
Yes, that’s right, cold showers. These are said to be beneficial for everything from improving circulation to boosting immunity. But what does the evidence actually say?
Here’s a look at some of the purported benefits of cold showers, as well as the science behind them.
Cold showers are said to improve circulation.
This is because they cause the blood vessels to constrict, which then causes an increase in blood flow. This, in turn, can improve overall circulation.
There is some evidence to support this claim. A study of 10 healthy men found that cold water immersion caused an increase in blood flow to the skin.
Another study looked at the effects of cold water immersion on people with Raynaud’s disease, which is a condition that causes poor circulation. The study found that cold water immersion improved circulation in the affected areas.
So, if you’re looking to improve your circulation, cold showers may be worth a try.
Cold showers are said to boost immunity.
This is because they can help fight off infection by stimulating the body’s white blood cells.
There is some evidence to support this claim. A study of 10 men found that cold water immersion increased the activity of white blood cells.
Another study looked at the effects of cold water immersion on people with multiple sclerosis. The study found that cold water immersion improved the immune response in the affected areas.
So, if you’re looking to boost your immunity, cold showers may be worth a try.
Cold showers are said to improve mental health.
This is because they can help to relieve stress and improve mood.
There is some evidence to support this claim. A study of 30 healthy men found that cold water immersion improved mood and reduced stress levels.
Another study looked at the effects of cold water immersion on people with depression. The study found that cold water immersion improved symptoms in the affected areas.
So, if you’re looking to improve your mental health, cold showers may be worth a try.
The bottom line
There is some evidence to support the claims that cold showers can improve circulation, boost immunity, and improve mental health. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
If you’re looking to try cold showers, start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of the shower. And be sure to consult your doctor before trying this if you have any health concerns.
