5 Health Benefits of Ice Baths

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You might have seen professional athletes jump into an ice bath after a game. Or maybe you know a fitness buff who swears by ice baths for post-workout recovery. Ice-cold plunges are a form of cryotherapy, which involves using cold to treat various health concerns. And ice plunges are favored among many celebrities, with everyone from football players to singers taking a dip.

Although the practice has become popular in recent years, it's nothing new. People have used cold-water immersion for better health and wellness for centuries. Fans of the technique claim it can soothe sore muscles, reduce inflammation, and promote better sleep. However, much of the research on the benefits of ice baths is mixed.

What are the benefits of ice baths?

Ice baths aren't as extreme as whole-body cryotherapy, which involves exposure to very low temperatures. Instead, ice baths require a brief -- usually around 5 to 10 minutes -- plunge in 50°F to 59°F water. Ice bath fans use the practice to remedy muscle soreness, stress, and more.

Find out what the science says about the following purported health benefits of ice baths.

1. Reduces inflammation and swelling

When you take an ice bath, the cold temperature narrows your blood vessels. This decreases blood flow to your muscles, which may reduce inflammation and swelling. Some research suggests that cold therapy may lower post-exercise inflammation better than compression garments (like compression socks).

2. Relieves sore muscles

Stepping into a cold bath might help relieve sore muscles. Scientists aren't sure exactly how it works. But less inflammation and slower nerve signaling could mean less pain. Cold water could also lower your perception of pain or how much soreness you feel.

According to one systematic review, ice baths may reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise. But the studies analyzed in the review were low quality. The best way to take an ice bath to soothe sore muscles -- including ideal water temperature, duration, and frequency -- was unclear.

Evidence indicates that ice baths may also ease pain from chronic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia. But there's a need for more research on ice baths for chronic pain relief and the possible long-term side effects.

3. Aids exercise recovery

When you get out of an ice bath, your blood vessels dilate, or widen, which increases circulation. The nutrient-rich blood flow to your muscles may help remove metabolic waste that builds up during exercise. But research on ice baths as a tool for post-workout recovery is limited and conflicting.

Some studies suggest that ice baths promote exercise recovery. But it's unclear if the pros outweigh the cons. A 2021 review found that taking an icy cold plunge reduces exercise-induced inflammation. But the researchers noted that ice baths can also hinder training adaptations that allow you to build muscle and improve your performance. However, this potential side effect may only apply to strength training and not aerobic workouts.

One very small study found that ice baths are no more effective than active recovery. So, low-intensity recovery workouts might be a better choice to increase muscle mass or strength.

4. Supports immunity

Some evidence indicates that ice baths support a healthy immune system. In a small study, people were exposed to bacteria to find out how their immune systems would respond. The participants who combined cold-water immersion, deep breathing, and meditation had fewer bacterial infection symptoms than those who didn't. But it's difficult to conclude how effective cold-water immersion is for your immune system because the study looked at several methods.

5. Improves mental health

Ice baths may be good for your mental health, too. A small study found that taking a 20-minute ice bath every day improved quality of life in people with gout. The study's participants had better joint mobility and less stress, anxiety, and depression after 4 weeks. Scientists think that exposing your body to cold water triggers a stress response and activates the nervous system. These changes can improve your mood and help you adapt to stress over time.

How do you make an ice bath?

There aren't standard guidelines for how to make an ice bath. So, most information on the best water temperature, how long to sit in an ice bath, and how often to take one comes from research and firsthand accounts.

You have plenty of options if you decide to try ice baths. You could go to a gym or spa with a cold-water pool or buy an at-home ice bath with a temperature control system. But you can also just use a bathtub. All you need are some ice cubes, a thermometer, and a timer.

To make an ice bath and take a plunge at home:

1. Fill a tub. Run cold water, fill the tub halfway, and put your thermometer in the tub.

2. Add ice. Gradually add ice cubes to the water.

3. Get in. Change into comfortable clothes, like a T-shirt and shorts.Step into the tub slowly when the water reaches 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C).

4. Set a timer. Set your alarm for 5 to 10 minutes or less, based on what feels right for your body.

5. Leave the tub. Get out of the tub carefully. Dry off thoroughly before changing into dry clothes.

Some ice bath enthusiasts suggest slowly building up a tolerance to cold-water exposure. For example, it might be a good idea to gradually lower the temperature of your ice baths until you reach a point that works for you. Or you can ease into the icy, cold plunges by starting with lower-body soaks before working your way up to full-body soaks. This way, the icy water isn't as shocking to your system.

How often should you take ice baths?

Many athletes suggest getting in an ice bath as soon as possible after a workout to reduce DOMS. And some research suggests that the method is most effective up to 24 hours after exercise. Other proponents of cold-water therapy recommend ending every shower with a blast of cold water and moving on to regular ice baths only as needed, like when you have muscle aches or pains.

What are the risks of taking ice baths?

Taking ice baths can be risky, especially if you have certain health conditions. So, talk to a healthcare professional before you try ice baths. They may recommend avoiding this practice if you have:

• High blood pressure or heart disease

• Circulatory problems like peripheral artery disease

• Conditions that increase your sensitivity to cold

• An open wound

• Diabetes

The shock from cold water exposure can stress the heart or even trigger sudden cardiac issues. That's why experts recommend avoiding ice baths if you have a history of heart problems. Other potential risks of ice baths include:

• Hypothermia

• Cold injuries, such as frostnip or frostbite

• Skin irritation, such as itchiness, redness, or hives

Staying in an ice bath for too long can cause hypothermia, which occurs when your body temperature drops too low. It's important to use a timer and keep your ice baths brief. And remember to pay attention to your body. You should get out of an ice bath immediately if you start shivering uncontrollably or notice changes to your skin color.

Are there alternatives to ice baths for muscle recovery?

Although it's become more popular recently, taking an ice bath is still a controversial method for exercise recovery in some circles. And, in general, there's a need for more high-quality research on the practice.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to ice baths for muscle recovery. Consider these expert-approved methods to soothe sore muscles and promote recovery after exercise:

• Cool down after every workout. A 5-minute cooldown with low-intensity cardio and static stretches can kick the exercise recovery process into gear. This type of cooldown helps with gradually lowering your heart rate and relaxing your muscles.

• Practice active recovery.Active recovery involves low-intensity exercise after more vigorous workouts. The gentle movement can boost blood flow and relieve muscle pain. Try practicing tai chi, yoga, or swimming on rest days.

• Try foam rolling. Foam rolling exercises use targeted pressure to reduce muscle aches and pains. This self-massage technique is a great way to release tight muscles after challenging workouts.

• Get a good night's sleep. Adults need 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep every night. This is essential for your health and well-being. And it gives your muscles time to adapt, repair, and grow.

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