Researchers at the University of South Australia (UniSA) have shed light on the potential benefits of cold-water immersion for stress reduction. In a recently released press statement, study authors Tara Cain and Ben Singh revealed that cold-water immersion could significantly reduce stress levels for up to 12 hours following the treatment. The study highlights an intriguing connection between this unconventional therapy and its impact on stress.
The research team focused on the effects of cold-water immersion and found a positive correlation with decreased stress levels. As part of the study, participants underwent cold-water treatments and experienced notable reductions in their stress levels within half a day. The study's findings, released through a press statement, have sparked interest in the scientific community and among health enthusiasts alike.
Tara Cain, one of the lead researchers from UniSA, made several observations about the findings. She noted that while cold-water therapy might not appeal to everyone, its benefits could still be significant for some individuals.
“I don’t think people should feel left out if they don’t want to do cold therapy,” – Tara Cain
Cain also highlighted potential risks associated with the practice, particularly for those with underlying vascular conditions such as high blood pressure.
“Exposure to cold itself can actually be harmful, particularly for people with underlying vascular disease like high blood pressure.” – Tara Cain
She elaborated on the body's physiological response to cold exposure, likening it to how exercise induces muscle damage before strengthening them.
“The immediate spike in inflammation is the body’s reaction to the cold as a stressor. It helps the body adapt and recover and is similar to how exercise causes muscle damage before making muscles stronger, which is why athletes use it despite the short-term increase,” – Tara Cain
Despite these promising findings, Cain emphasized the need for more comprehensive research to determine who benefits most from this therapy and the ideal methods for its application.
“Right now, there isn’t enough high-quality research to say exactly who benefits most or what the ideal approach is to cold-water immersion,” – Tara Cain
Ben Singh, PhD, also from UniSA, discussed the study with Healthline, underscoring the necessity for further exploration into the therapy's long-term effects and broader applicability.
“More long-term studies, among more diverse populations, are needed to understand its lasting effects and practical applications.” – Tara Cain
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