Ice Bath Challenge Can Be Beneficial For Your Physical And Mental Health; Here’s How

Today, social media is all about one’s relevance to keep up with the trends. Although most of them just come and pass, some stay for a longer duration involving a major number of people.

Adding to the craze, there is one such trend that not only indulged several celebrities and influencers on social media platforms but also claimed to be beneficial for physical and mental health. It is the ice bath trend wherein several influencers and celebrities have been seen immersing themselves in a tub filled with ice-cold water.

The process of ice bath involves cold water immersion having a minimum temperature of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius for 10-15 minutes. It is also called cryotherapy.

While many must be wondering who has started this painful trend. Celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Chris Pratt, and Oprah, were seen taking ice bath challenges back in 2019 when it gained momentum, and now it is gaining major attention in India. However, the trend in India is adding a twist to it, which is the health benefit of taking an ice bath challenge.

Recently, the Chak De! India fame Vidya Malavade, who is known for her dedication to fitness, opted for the ice bath challenge on Instagram. Highlighting the health benefits of taking ice baths, the actress wrote in her post, “There are so many benefits of ice baths .. Improved immunity .. cardiovascular health & muscle recovery, reduces inflammation.. It also allows your blood to rush towards the organs rejuvenating every cell, nerve, organ even blood making it super invigorating.. & Once you settle in the COLD .. it can be absolutely meditative & exhilarating all together!”

A post shared by VidyaMMalavade (@vidyamalavade)

Given the recent stir at the health benefits of ice baths, let us take a look at the expert advice on the beneficial and cautionary points of it.

According to the Internal Medicine consultant at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, Dr Tushar Tayal emphasizes that the cold water bath does have health benefits. It helps in activating the immune system by increasing antibodies. It may also help in weight loss as it increases metabolism causing fat to burn more calories, reported India Today.

Additionally, a consultant psychiatrist from Mumbai, Dr Wilona Annunciation hints at a study published in January 2023 which found that the ice bath helps facilitate positive effects and reduces negativity.

However, an orthopaedic surgeon at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, Dr A Brion Gardner highlights that there can also be a high risk of developing diseases like hypothermia if it is done for a longer duration. According to a report of Health Line, people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes need to be careful if having ice baths as they have a chance to get an imbalanced body temperature, said Dr Gardner.