Insane benefits of cold showers as reality of small lifestyle change explained

While it might be the last thing you want to do when it’s getting chillier outside, there’s insane benefits to having cold showers.

Yep, just a small little change to your lifestyle (if you’ve got the balls for it) can do great things for both your physical and mental health.

Of course, things like cold water swimming and cold plunges have already risen in popularity over the years, with people kicking off their day with a chill - no matter the weather.

But you don’t even need to leave your house to feel the benefits of the rush of cold shower. Studies have found links to cold water boosting the immune system, decreasing inflammatory responses and improving mood generally.

Realistically, the evidence to back cold-water therapy is often scarce, but there are plenty of people raving about its benefits.

The chill might be worth it. (Getty Stock)

Impact of cold water

Dr Michael Mosley once did a podcast about cold showers as it’s explained cold water stresses the body, seeing it as a threat.

So, as a result, your body’s primal stress response is activated (heart raise increasing, hyperventilation, blood vessels changing shape and size) but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Chronic stress is, that’s for sure, but putting your body into this survival state at short bursts may not be, as your whole body is whipped into action. And researchers reckon having these moments of short-term stress is what triggers the benefits.

Benefits of cold-water therapy

There has been plenty of evidence that cold water swimmers are more resistant to certain illnesses and infections as scientists reckon it’s the cold water improving their immunity.

A study previously found that having 30-second cold showers every morning for 60 days could decrease sick days by an impressive 30 percent.

There are also reports that cold water therapy can improve risk factors for cardiovascular disease like blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Improving mood, there are reports of people experiencing increased dopamine, serotonin and b-endorphin levels with some case studies showing a reduction in the use of antidepressants.

Another widely reported benefit is a reduction in inflammation and along with swelling this can help reduce muscle pain and stiffness after exercise.

Ok, that's brave. (Getty Stock)

Safety of cold-water therapy

While it’s believed the stress your body is under due to cold water is what produces much of the benefits, it can still mean it’s dangerous for some.

Bupa explain that cold water immersion can trigger:

• cold water shock – an automatic response where your heart rate increases and you lose control of your breathing
• arrhythmias (heart rhythm disorders)
• hypothermia

Many of the issues that can arise from cold-water therapy are more likely for those with underlying medical conditions.

If you’re concerned about the effect it may have on you, speak to your GP first.

Cold showers are a great way to get going with cold-water therapy as it’s less intense than the other methods. Just try gradually reducing the temperature while you’re in there and then increase the time you’re stood under it to help you get used to it.