Ice Bath: How dangerous is taking an ice bath in winter, know the opinion of experts!
PC: Tom's Guide
To keep the body healthy, it is necessary to take a bath daily. However, in recent times, many people, from celebrities to common people, are opting for ice baths, which means taking a bath with ice-cold water. Some people also call it cold water immersion. People abroad can be seen taking a dip in icy lakes and recording videos of the experience. The origins of the ice bath are surrounded by various stories, but the credit for connecting this ancient tradition to our modern world is often given to Wim Hof, also known as the 'Iceman'.
Wim Hof, born in the Netherlands in 1959, found great solace in drowning in cold water at the age of 17. After experiencing mental stress following the death of his wife in 1995, Hoff discovered that ice baths played a significant role in reducing his stress. Subsequently, he decided to share the benefits of ice baths with others, thereby popularizing the practice. Well, this is history but some people take the ice bath challenge even in winter. Let's find out with a health expert how risky this challenge can be for the heart.
What is an ice bath?
Dr Vijay Kumar Gurjar, HOD and senior consultant, department of internal medicine, Primus Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi, explains that ice bath offers many benefits, but they can be a bit risky for individuals with cardiovascular problems during the winter season. An ice bath involves immersing yourself in water that is 10-15 degrees Celsius, usually for ten minutes.
pc: Verywell Health
Many benefits:
People engaged in sports or bodybuilding often opt for ice baths to provide relief from pain and swelling to muscles and tissues. Ice baths are known to reduce muscle pain and tissue, providing significant relief. They are also helpful in getting deep and restful sleep.
But don't take risks:
Dr Vijay Kumar Gurjar suggests that although there are many benefits of taking an ice bath, the challenge of taking an ice bath during the winter season may pose some risks, especially for individuals with cardiovascular problems. Exposure to extremely cold water can cause hypothermia. Sudden exposure to extremely cold water can have adverse effects on the heart. Those considering such challenges should prioritize their safety and remain alert to any signals from their body. Be aware of the signals you receive from your body. Along with this, before bathing in very cold water, take any step only after consulting a health expert.
