Repeating exposure to cold water may be the key to training the body to better handle cellular stress, according to a recent study from the University of Ottawa. Over a week of daily immersion in cold water, participants showed improved autophagy, a cellular “recycling” system, and reduced signs of damage.
Researchers discovered that repeated cold exposure can strengthen the body’s ability to manage stress at the cellular level. The study involved ten healthy young men who took part in cold-water immersion for one hour each day over seven days. Blood samples were collected before and after the immersion period to track changes in autophagy and apoptosis, the controlled removal of damaged cells.
The results showed that while autophagy was initially dysfunctional after high-intensity cold stress, consistent exposure led to increased activity and decreased cellular damage signals. By the end of the acclimation, participants had improved their cellular cold tolerance, suggesting that cold acclimation may help the body cope with extreme environmental conditions.
The study’s findings have implications beyond athletic performance, providing scientific backing for the potential health benefits of cold water immersion. Improved autophagic activity could extend cellular longevity and prevent disease onset. Researchers emphasize the importance of acclimation protocols in enhancing human health, especially in extreme temperature contexts.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/how-cold-water-rewires-your-cells-to-fight-stress-and-aging