WHY YOU NEED TO STOP COLD PLUNGING

In the realm of health and wellness, cold plunging has surfaced as THE way to recover and incredibly beneficial to our nervous system. But is it really? What is the real impact of deliberate cold exposure? And should women partake in this cold plunge trend? Let’s peal back the layers of this icy onion and see what the data really says.

Cold Exposure and Hormones

Cold exposure triggers the body's stress response, activating the sympathetic nervous system and stimulating the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While this response is crucial for survival in acute situations, chronic exposure to cold can disrupt hormonal balance in several ways:

Thyroid Function

Cold temperatures can suppress thyroid function, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). This slowdown in thyroid activity can negatively impact metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormone regulation.

Stress Hormones

Prolonged exposure to cold can heighten stress hormones so much so that it can disrupt menstrual cycles. The stress hormones released during cold exposure can even interfere with reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, potentially causing irregular periods.

Stress from prolonged and deliberate cold exposure can increase cortisol levels, which can have widespread effects on the body, including immune suppression, weight gain (especially around the abdomen), and mood disturbances.

Insulin Sensitivity

Cold exposure may reduce insulin sensitivity, contributing to metabolic issues and potentially increasing the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes over time.

For women experiencing peri-menopause, when hormone levels naturally fluctuate and decline, the additional stress from cold exposure can exacerbate symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Heat Exposure and Hormone Health

Conversely, exposure to warmth and heat can have several positive effects on hormone health, especially during peri-menopause:

Improved Circulation

Heat promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which enhances blood flow and nutrient delivery throughout the body, including hormone-producing glands like the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Stress Reduction

Heat exposure has the ability to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. This promotes relaxation and reduces cortisol levels, helping to counteract the negative impact of chronic stress on hormone balance.

Endorphin Release

Deliberate heat exposure can trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood enhancers. This can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression often associated with hormonal changes during peri-menopause.

In fact, heat therapies, have been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats in peri-menopausal and menopausal women.

SUM IT UP SIS

While cold exposure, particularly when deliberate, can disrupt hormonal balance and exacerbate symptoms in women, especially during peri-menopause. On the other hand, heat exposure can support hormone health by promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and alleviating menopausal symptoms.

Suffice it to say, LET’S GET HOT! 🔥