Are Cold Showers Bad For You?
Short answer
Starting off with a warm temperature and then working toward a cooler one—has its benefits and can be healthy for the body and mind. In particular, cold showers have been known to change moods by acting like an anti-depressant.
Very beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B+' may have a few harmful qualities to pay attention to.
View Full Grading System
Category 'A'
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Side effects are rare. Things rated an 'A+' are typically necessary for survival (for example, water).
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. A few harmful qualities may be associated, but only under certain circumstances such as an allergic reaction.
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Harmful qualities may be associated, but aren't usually serious.
It is important to note that even the best things in life can become bad in immoderate amounts. So, although something may be rated an 'A+', overconsumption/overdoing can bring unwanted effects.
Category 'B'
Very beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B+' may have a few harmful qualities to pay attention to.
Overall beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B' may have some harmful qualities to pay attention to.
More beneficial to your health than not. However, harmful qualities are most likely associated and shouldn't be overlooked.
The main difference between category 'A' and category 'B' is the harmful qualities typically present in 'B' items. Serious side effects are usually uncommon, but are still possible and should be taken note of.
Category 'C'
Both beneficial and harmful qualities associated. Things rated a 'C+' are typically a bit more on the beneficial side. Still, moderation is important.
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
More harmful than beneficial. Side effects are common, especially when consumed/done excessively. Moderation is very important.
Category 'C' usually denotes to both good and bad qualities. When it comes to this category, it is important to keep this word in mind: moderation.
Category 'D'
Harmful to your health. Although benefits may be associated, the bad most likely outweighs the good. Moderation is very important.
Harmful to your health. A few benefits may be associated, but the bad outweighs the good. Moderation is extremely important.
Harmful to your health. Very few, if any, benefits are present. Things in this category should be avoided as much as possible.
Category 'D' is typically for things that are more harmful than beneficial. While consuming/doing something unhealthy once in a blue moon shouldn't hurt, we definitely recommend eliminating 'D' items as a regular part of your routine/diet.
Category 'F'
Category 'F' is for things that fail to bring anything beneficial to the table, and are very harmful to your health. We recommend completely avoiding anything in this category. Long-term side effects of 'F' items are usually very serious.
Category 'N'
'N' stands for neutral. Things placed into this category are generally (a) neither good nor bad for you, or (b) lack the necessary evidence to reach any conclusions.
Long answer
After a long day of work, what kind of shower do you take? Hot or cold? If you’re like most, you probably enjoy a nice, warm to hot shower. Turns out this may not be the most beneficial way to do it. Truth is, what may seem like a dreadfully cold shower really does come with some health benefits.
Studies everywhere are popping up showing statistical data supporting cold showers. It just so happens that a cold shower could be what the doctor orders. Many athletes already use cold showers as a way to reduce healing time after an injury. Did you have a strenuous workout, pull a muscle, or even break a bone? A cold shower can help in all situations.
Still not convinced about the benefits of a nice, cold shower. How about when washing your face? Cold water actually helps the skin stay tight and keeps pores closed so oil won’t seep in. This, in turn, reduces the risk of acne. Furthermore, it reduces swelling and the much-dreaded bags underneath the eyes. The same benefits hold true for your hair too! A cold shower can help strengthen the hair by closing the cuticle.
Here comes what may be the only bad news: Some of you will want to jump straight into an ice cold shower, don’t do it. The key to these benefits is not a sudden temperature shock to the body - which can be harmful and pose a threat. In fact, this can cause a shock to the immune system and potential increase the risk of catching a cold. Also, if you suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure or are simply overheated, note that going straight into a cold shower causes the blood vessels to constrict, thus becoming narrower and negatively affecting blood flow.
All in all, as long as you start warm and gradually lower the temperature, cold showers can help you reap various benefits.
Possible short-term side effects
- jumping straight into a cold shower can shock the immune system - which can increase your risk of catching a cold
Benefits
- promotes healthy skin and hair
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natural anti-depressant
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reduces healing time of muscles, joints, and fractures
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improved immune system
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improved circulation
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increased alertness
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helps with weight loss
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Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 01-12-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016
Thank you for your feedback!
Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 01-12-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016
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