HEALTH BENEFITS

Cold exposure can significantly increase the production of norepinephrine in the body, with a consistent increase of 200-300% that does not diminish over time. The colder the temperature, the more pronounced the body’s response to the increase in norepinephrine production. In fact, a 20-30 second immersion in near freezing water can elicit the same level of increase as a 6 hour walk in 16°C weather.

Cold exposure can stimulate the production of a protein called PGC-1 alpha, which can increase metabolism at a cellular level. PGC-1 alpha is being targeted by pharmaceutical companies in the development of treatments for obesity, diabetes, and cardiomyopathy. In muscle tissue, the increased energy released from the production of PGC-1alpha can improve aerobic capacity and endurance, as well as increase resistance to fatigue.

Cold water immersion, can challenge the immune system and the way hormones communicate with the body. Just a few cold water sessions over a 6 week period can increase the number of lymphocytes, a type of immune cell. Some research has even found that males exposed to 39°F for 30 minutes had an increased number of “killer T cells,” which are cells that help to eliminate viruses. These findings suggest that cold water immersion may have immune-boosting effects on the body.