A recent study has challenged the popular trend of taking ice baths and cold plunges for their health benefits. While proponents claim it reduces stress, softens muscle damage, and supports immune function, new research found that it may actually increase inflammation in the body.
The study, published in the PLOS One journal, analyzed data from 11 studies involving over 3,000 participants who took cold water immersions for at least 30 seconds. However, instead of reducing inflammation, the researchers discovered an “acute inflammatory response” after immersion.
Athletes often use ice baths to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, but this study’s findings suggest that the body’s immediate reaction to cold stress may be counterintuitive. The short-term increase in inflammation could be detrimental for people with pre-existing health conditions.
The study did find some benefits of cold water immersion, such as a 29% reduction in sickness absence among participants who took cold showers. However, more research is needed to understand the effects of cold-water immersion on diverse populations and its lasting impact on overall health.
Experts emphasize the importance of understanding the body’s response to cold stress and warn that there is currently not enough high-quality research to recommend a specific approach for cold-water immersion.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/influencers-ice-bath-improves-health-170207873.html