COLD AS A WELL-BEING TOOL
Regulation of Hunger Hormones:
- Ghrelin (hunger hormone). Some studies indicate that cold exposure may reduce ghrelin levels, leading to a decrease in appetite.
- Leptin (satiety hormone). Cold exposure may increase leptin sensitivity, improving the body’s ability to perceive satiety (Westerterp-Plantenga et al., 2002; Saito et al., 2009; Chechi et al., 2013; van der Lans et al., 2013).
1. Stimulating the nervous system and increasing energy
- Cold water stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, increasing adrenaline production and alertness.
- It can help you wake up quickly and feel more energetic.
2. Improvement of blood circulation
- Cold exposure causes initial vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels), followed by vasodilation (widening of the vessels) as the body warms up.
- This process improves blood circulation, promoting tissue oxygenation and the elimination of toxins.
3. Benefits for the immune system
- Cold baths are known to increase the production of white blood cells, strengthening the immune system.
- They may help reduce susceptibility to colds and influenza.
4. Reducing stress and improving mood
- Cold water stimulates the production of endorphins, often called “happiness hormones”.
- It reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
- It is an effective way to counter anxiety and improve general mood.
5. Mental strengthening and resilience
- Cold exposure is a controlled form of stress that helps develop mental resilience and ability to deal with difficult situations.
6. Improvement of metabolism
- The cold activates brown fat, a type of fat that generates heat by burning calories.
- This process can help improve metabolism and promote weight control.
7. Benefits for skin and hair
- Cold water helps narrow the pores, reducing the loss of natural oils of the skin and preventing dryness.
- It may make hair shinier and stronger.
8. Reduction of inflammation and muscle recovery
- As a sort of cryotherapy, a cold bath reduces inflammation, alleviating muscle and joint pain.
- It is especially useful for those who practice sports or intense physical activity.
Precautions
- If you are not used to cold baths, start gradually, for example with short cold showers.
- Avoid cold-water immersion if you have a heart condition or blood-pressure problems unless your doctor has approved it.
- Do not prolong cold exposure excessively, as this can lead to hypothermia.