The Benefits of Cold Exposure Therapy on Brain Health and Resilience
How exposure to cold temperatures can improve mental toughness and cognitive function.
It’s been pretty hard to miss the hype over cold water therapy that’s been everywhere of late. However, it’s also fairly difficult to sort the facts from the fiction. Well, that’s where today’s blog comes in. We’re going to give you the lowdown on the real benefits of cold water exposure and explain exactly how it impacts your brain and cognitive function.
What happens when we get chilly?
From cold showers to ice baths, many of us have been quite literally dipping our toes into the latest health craze. But what is going on in our bodies and brains when we’re exposed to the cold? And how does this benefit us?
When the body is exposed to cold temperatures, it triggers a range of physiological responses, many of which directly affect the brain. Various thermoregulatory mechanisms that activate to maintain our core temperature cause an increased rate of metabolic activity and circulation. In turn, this promotes the release of a variety of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors.
Cognitive function
Both brain derived neurotrophic factor (or BDNF) and norepinephrine play important roles in cognitive function. Increased levels of norepinephrine enhance executive function and attention and higher amounts of BDNF promote neuronal growth and synaptic plasticity, leading to improved memory and learning. Together, the effects of these processes help to increase focus, alertness, and mental clarity.
Catching zzz’s
One of the more hotly discussed effects of cold water therapy is its ability to help us sleep better. We know that sleep quality is of utmost importance to maintain a healthy functioning brain, helping to consolidate the day and form memories. Studies have indeed revealed that exposure to cold temperatures can help modulate our sleep-wake cycle. In response, we’re more likely to enjoy deeper and more restorative sleep.
Mental health benefits
You may also have heard of the positive influence that exposure to cold temperatures can have on your mental health. Since our emotional well-being is heavily influenced by our overall cognitive function, it makes sense that cold water therapy is incredibly beneficial for mood regulation. Cold exposure causes the release of feel-good neurotransmitters and endorphins that help fight against the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and bolster cognitive resilience.
Neuroprotective factors
Additionally, the activation of these cold-induced pathways produces stress response molecules and heat shock proteins. Together, they help to protect neurons from the inflammation and oxidative stress that accelerate neurodegeneration, resulting in a lower risk of diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Cold water therapy is an excellent, affordable, and accessible way to improve your brain health. Just make sure to consult a health professional if you are attempting its more extreme forms, such as cryotherapy chambers or ice baths.