Can a Cold Plunge Help You Lose Weight?

Have you heard the rumor that a cold plunge can help you lose weight?

You may already know that you can use a cold plunge to help with inflammation, to combat muscle and joint soreness, and to help with recovery. Another potential benefit may just be weight loss.

There is some data that shows cold temps help you burn more calories and may help you regulate your weight. Let’s look at some of the studies that point to cold plunging for weight loss.

Cold Plunge + Weightloss

According to the CDC, more than 40% of Americans are considered obese. This contributes to Type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and more.

Scientists today are working hard to learn how ice baths can help people lose weight.  See below when we talk about cold thermogenesis.

Learn more about how cold plunging can help and stay tuned as more research comes in.

Cold Thermogenesis

What exactly is this? It refers to the heat production in animals. It’s actually how your body generates heat by increasing your metabolism when you’re cold. So, your body goes into overdrive when you’re cold to help you get warm.

There are some experts who think this is how cold plunging helps you lose weight when done on a regular basis. Here’s how:

• As your body works extra to warm up, it uses a lot of energy. This extra expenditure burns calories. If you do this often enough, you may burn calories over an extended period of time.
• Cold plunging may also increase your brown fat. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Brown fat (brown adipose tissue) is a type of body fat that regulates your body temperature in cold conditions. As your brown fat increases, you may again burn more calories.
  
• Another way cold soaking may help you is that it can reduce your blood sugar levels and boost your metabolism. How does this help? A higher metabolism burns calories at a faster rate. It’s similar to strength training – the more muscles you have, the better your metabolism.

More Cold Plunging Benefits

Yes, soaking in the Vigor Cold Plunge may help you lose weight, and it can boost your immune system and speed up recovery. But, it can do so many other things.

• You may sleep better.
• You may stress less.
• Some people experience less anxiety.
• You can lessen your inflammation.
• Chronic pain and everyday aches are lessened.
• Your circulation may improve.
• You will feel refreshed and energized.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cold Soaking & Weight Loss

• Does cold water soaking burn fat? Cold soaking may make your body work more efficiently, so it aids in weight loss. Do be aware, though, that cold soaking is not a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise. Cold soaking is just one peice of your weight loss and wellness routine.
• How many calories will you burn? Your body can burn calories through the cold-induced thermogenesis we mentioned earlier. It is a relatively small amount, though.
• How long do you have to soak for weight loss? It’s always important to consider safety when soaking in a cold plunge. The recommended duration is to start with around two minutes and gradually increase as you adapt to cold plunging. Always speak with a physician first.

Final Thoughts on the Plunge and Losing Weight

There are so many benefits to cold water therapy. An added bonus may be that regular soaking may help you lose weight by boosting your metabolism using the power of your brown fat.

It’s important to remember that to lose weight, you must pay attention to your diet. You can’t outwork out or outsoak poor nutrition. If you’re trying to lose weight, talk with your doctor about using cold water therapy as one component of your plan.

Overall, investing in a cold plunge is an investment in your overall health and well-being. With so many great benefits, why not enjoy them all with your very own cold plunge? Contact us today to learn more!

Medical disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before starting any weight loss routine or cold plunging.