Cold shower benefits

The question of whether to take cold showers depends on whether you are willing to improve yourself physically and mentally for a bit of discomfort. People who take cold showers report feeling more alive, losing more weight, or having a brighter outlook on life. Here's some information to get you started.

Weight loss

According to some weight loss estimates, you might burn a measly 10-20 calories with 5-10 minutes of cold water immersion. Sounds minimal, right? But some reports claim you might burn more along the lines of 300-400 calories in the same amount of time. Most would agree that after a decently chilly 10 minute shower that their entire physique looks improved.

This process occurs as a byproduct of white fat reduction and metabolic changes. Metabolism increases by hundreds of percentage points if the temperature is cold enough, reducing the "bad fat" and thus making you slimmer.

Testosterone

According to the Fischer Institute, cold water immersion has been "shown to increase testosterone levels, which can indirectly impact sperm count". According to other estimates, cold showers can induce muscle growth either following bouts of exercise or pre-workout.

There are also bodybuilders on the internet who claim they use cold showers to improve their gains, despite a lack of research. Keep in mind that if testosterone is increased you will see improvements in body composition.

Immune system

Basically, cold water can stimulate the production of red blood cells that fight off infection. A study conducted in the Netherlands found that 30-90 seconds of cold bathing resulted in calling in sick 29% less than the people who didn't switch to cold water.

Better mood

When immersed in cold water, the body increases the production of Serotonin, dopamine (by as much as 250%), and norepinephrine. These feel-good hormones lead to feelings of life satisfaction, overall happiness, interest in hobbies, and improved motivation.

There has been some research into using cold showers to treat conditions like depression. It acts as a mood enhancer and over time may lift people out of depressive states.

Reduce muscle soreness

Is your body tired from exercise? Cold showers help by constricting the blood vessels, which helps the body rid itself of lactic acid. Professional athletes might use cold baths and showers to aid in post-workout recovery.

There are many reasons to take a cold shower (more than I have listed here). Start today and improve your life.