IT SEEMS the reputed health-promoting benefits of cold-water swimming are not just down to a massive dose of smugness and virtue.
A new Canadian study published in Advanced Biology has found that cold water immersion for seven days significantly improves cellular resilience, helping cells manage stress better and potentially preventing diseases and slowing aging at a cellular level.
The study involved 10 healthy young males who underwent cold-water immersion at 14C for one hour a day across seven consecutive days.
Yes, that is one hour, not a quick cold shower.
Blood samples were collected to analyse the participants' cellular responses before and after the acclimation period.
The process boosted cellular autophagic function, a cell recycling system that promotes cellular health, allowing cells to better manage stress.
While autophagic function was dysfunctional after the first cold dip, the researchers found that consistent exposure over a week led to increased autophagic activity and decreased cellular damage signals.
"Cold exposure might help prevent diseases and potentially even slow down ageing at a cellular level," said author Dr Kelli King, adding that "it's like a tune-up for your body's microscopic machinery".
The authors are keen to find out if this applies to groups other than young healthy males.
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