Is it true that … cold water plunges boost immunity?

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"The Impact of Cold Water Immersion on Immune Function: A Scientific Examination"

Is it true that … cold water plunges boost immunity? analysis cover image The Guardian 8.9
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/jun/09/is-it-true-that-cold-water-plunges-boost-immunity
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AI Analysis Average Score: 8.9
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TruthLens AI Summary

Cold water immersion has been a popular practice throughout history, believed to offer various health benefits. Mike Tipton, a professor of human and applied physiology at the University of Portsmouth, highlights that while this practice activates the body through a series of physiological responses, it does not necessarily strengthen the immune system. Upon immersion in cold water, individuals experience a cold shock response characterized by rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and a surge of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These reactions can lead to a heightened sense of alertness and energy. However, the connection between cold water exposure and a reduced likelihood of falling ill remains ambiguous. Although some studies have shown increased immune cell activity in the blood following cold exposure, this does not directly correlate with a decrease in infections or illnesses.

Furthermore, Tipton emphasizes that many of the studies often cited may not provide a complete picture. For instance, a frequently referenced Dutch study reported that individuals who finished their daily hot showers with a cold plunge took fewer sick days, yet these participants did not report fewer infections compared to those who did not engage in cold exposure. This discrepancy suggests that the observed reduction in sick days could stem from enhanced resilience or a psychological commitment to endure the cold, rather than an actual improvement in immune function. Moreover, a recent study by Tipton’s research team indicated that swimmers, both indoor and outdoor, experienced fewer respiratory infections than non-swimmers, implying that the health benefits may be more closely related to the physical activity associated with swimming rather than the cold exposure itself. It is also important to note that excessive cold exposure can be detrimental, as a significant drop in core temperature may actually suppress the immune system. Therefore, Tipton advises keeping cold plunges brief, ideally limited to 90 seconds, to avoid potential negative health effects.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The article delves into the long-standing belief that cold water immersion can enhance immunity, a claim that has gained popularity in wellness circles. While it acknowledges historical practices and anecdotal evidence supporting this belief, it critically evaluates the scientific basis behind it, emphasizing the complexity of the relationship between cold exposure and immune function.

Scientific Scrutiny of Claims

Mike Tipton, a professor at the University of Portsmouth, articulates that while cold water immersion triggers a physiological response in the body, it does not necessarily equate to a stronger immune system. The cold shock response leads to heightened alertness and energy, but whether this translates to reduced illness is questionable. The article points out that many studies focused on immune cell activity do not consistently show a decrease in infections among those who engage in cold plunges.

Misinterpretation of Research Findings

The mention of a frequently cited Dutch study serves as a critical point in the article. Although it claims that participants who ended hot showers with cold water took fewer sick days, it also reveals that these individuals reported the same number of infections as those who did not take cold showers. This suggests that the perceived benefits might stem from psychological resilience rather than actual improvements in immunity.

Lifestyle Factors at Play

Tipton's research indicates that individuals who regularly swim, whether in cold or warm water, tend to have healthier lifestyles. Therefore, the benefits attributed to cold plunges may be more closely related to the overall health and fitness levels of these individuals rather than the cold water exposure itself.

Implications of the Findings

The article aims to clarify misconceptions about cold water immersion and its actual benefits to immunity. It challenges the narrative that cold exposure is a panacea for health, urging readers to consider broader lifestyle choices. This effort to present a more nuanced understanding of wellness trends may be a response to the growing market for health and wellness products that often oversell the benefits of certain practices.

In terms of potential societal impact, this article could contribute to a more informed public discourse regarding health practices. By demystifying cold water immersion, it may encourage individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles rather than relying solely on trendy wellness practices.

The article appears to be a rational and balanced exploration of the topic. It relies on scientific evidence and expert opinions to present a well-rounded view, minimizing the potential for manipulation. However, the emphasis on the inconclusiveness of cold water’s benefits might be perceived as downplaying the enthusiasm surrounding this practice.

Ultimately, the article's reliability stems from its commitment to scientific rigor and critical analysis rather than sensationalism. It seeks to inform the public rather than promote a specific agenda, making it a credible source for those curious about the health claims associated with cold water immersion.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/jun/09/is-it-true-that-cold-water-plunges-boost-immunity

‘It’s a long-held belief that taking to the waters is good for your health,” says Mike Tipton, a professor of human and applied physiology at the University of Portsmouth. From Roman frigidariums to Thomas Jefferson’s foot baths, cold immersion has long been seen as curative. But does modern science support the idea that it boosts immunity?

The answer: it’s complicated. While cold water immersion does activate the body, that’s not the same as strengthening the immune system. “When you immerse yourself in cold water, your body undergoes the cold shock response,” says Tipton. “You get rapid breathing, a spike in heart rate and a surge of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.” This may explain why people feel more alert or energised after a cold dip. But does it mean you’re less likely to get sick?

Many studies into the effects focus on immune cell activity in the blood – which can increase after cold exposure – but that doesn’t always translate into fewer infections. “It’s easy to cherry-pick results,” says Tipton. He points to afrequently quoted Dutch studyin which people who ended their daily hot showers with at least 30 seconds under cold water took 29% fewer sick days. While it’s often used as an example of the powers of cold plunges, those participants actually reported the same number of infections as those who didn’t have a cold shower. “That might reflect increased resilience or just a willingness to push through because of being part of a study,” says Tipton, rather than better immunity.

It may also be that regular cold plungers simply have a healthier lifestyle overall. A recent study by Tipton’s team found that indoor and outdoor swimmers had fewer respiratory infections than non-swimmers, suggesting it may be the exercise, not the cold, doing the work.

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One thing is clear: too much cold is harmful. “If your core temperature drops too far, it can suppress the immune system,” he says. His advice? Keep it short – no more than 90 seconds.

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Source: The Guardian