Biological differences make women react differently from men
Soaking in cold water, also known as "cold plunge", is becoming a popular health care trend. However, the application of this therapy to women still needs to be studied more carefully, because biological differences can cause the female body to react differently than men.
A new study published in the journal PLoS One shows that soaking in cold or hot water does not help improve muscle recovery in women within 72 hours of exercise. Most previous studies have focused on men, says Dr Lindsey C. Jones, a physiologist at the University of Michigan (USA). Meanwhile, women's bodies have a significantly different fat structure, muscle mass and hormone levels such as estrogen and testosterone, leading to different cold tolerance."
Scientists also note that when exposed to cold water suddenly, the body increases the secretion of cortisol, the stress hormone. However, this reaction is short-lived and there is not enough evidence to conclude that it brings long-term benefits. Some people think that this "cold shock" helps improve mood, but that is still just speculation.
There is not enough evidence to confirm the long-term benefits of refrigerotherapy
Notably, animal studies have shown that cold exposure can affect the reproductive system or change the menstrual cycle. However, according to Dr. Jennifer Klump, a women's health expert at the Portland Institute of Applied Medicine (USA): "There is currently no data on people who are strong enough to conclude that cold water soaking is dangerous for women. But for people with cardiovascular disease, hormonal disorders or pregnant women, they should be especially careful."
However, a self-reported survey shows that about 60% of women who regularly swim or soak in cold water say they sleep better and feel less anxious during premenopause. This suggests that the psychological effects of cold soaking may be positive in some people, but cannot be considered a scientific therapy.
Experts recommend that if women want to try soaking in cold water for experience, they should start slowly, limit the time to a few dozen seconds and consult a doctor before doing it, especially if they have a history of cardiovascular disease or hormonal disorders.
