Icy Hot: The Contrasting Benefits of Ice Baths and Saunas

 

The use of hot and cold therapy for various health benefits is not a new concept. Two popular methods that have gained a lot of attention in recent years are ice baths and saunas. Both have been claimed to have numerous health benefits, ranging from reducing inflammation and muscle soreness to burning calories and improving cardiovascular health. In this article, we will explore the contrasting benefits of these two therapies and answer some frequently asked questions about them.

Firstly, let's talk about ice baths. Ice baths involve immersing oneself in a tub filled with cold water and ice cubes. The idea behind it is that the cold temperature will help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote recovery after a workout. Some athletes swear by ice baths, claiming that they help them recover faster and reduce muscle soreness.

  

One of the most common questions people have about ice baths is whether they can help burn calories. While it is true that exposing the body to cold temperatures can increase metabolism, the number of calories burned during an ice bath is minimal. In fact, a 2015 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that a 10-minute ice bath only burned about 8 calories.

Another frequently asked question is whether ice baths can break a fever. While it is true that exposing the body to cold temperatures can lower body temperature, an ice bath is not a recommended treatment for a fever. In fact, the sudden drop in body temperature can be dangerous and cause hypothermia.

Speaking of hypothermia, this leads us to another frequently asked question: can an ice bath give you hypothermia? The answer is yes, it can. Hypothermia occurs when the body's temperature drops below its normal range, and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to this condition. It is important to monitor the length of time spent in an ice bath and to make sure that the water temperature is not too cold.

  

Now let's move on to saunas. Saunas involve exposing the body to high temperatures, usually between 170-190°F, and low humidity. The heat is thought to increase circulation, promote relaxation, and release toxins from the body through sweating. Saunas have been used for centuries in many cultures as a form of relaxation and healing.

One of the most commonly cited benefits of saunas is their ability to improve cardiovascular health. A 2018 study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that regular sauna use was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality.

Another frequently asked question about saunas is whether they can help with sore muscles. While saunas may not be as effective as ice baths for reducing inflammation and promoting recovery after a workout, they can help with muscle soreness by promoting relaxation and improving circulation.

In conclusion, both ice baths and saunas have their benefits and drawbacks. If you are considering purchasing an ice bath tub, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Likewise, if you are planning on using a sauna, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with high temperatures. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new therapy or exercise routine.