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A strong immune system helps you fight off seasonal colds and flu and builds overall well-being. Feeling unwell or tired, moody and unfocused, or having a lowered appetite might mean your body defenses do not work adequately.
A natural way to strengthen immunity
People have been using cold-water hardening to boost their immunity and vitality for ages. Cold-water therapy is known to improve overall physical and emotional health, accelerate natural recovery, and increase resistance to unfavorable environmental factors. While some still use traditional methods like ice baths, cold showers, and cold plunges, modern technology offers a more comfortable cryostimulation involving a three-minute exposure to extremely low temperatures. In contrast to ice baths and cold plunges, the risk of overcooling or catching a cold during a cryotherapy immune system treatment is minimal.
How does cryotherapy work for the immune system?
Research and practical experience show that cryostimulation has an excellent immune-boosting effect. But what is the underlying mechanism?
- Higher white blood cell count
According to the research, cryotherapy prompts a significant increase in lymphocytes and monocytes after ten whole-body treatments with a temperature of -130°C. Lymphocytes identify foreign microorganisms and substances and produce antibodies that attack and kill the virus-infected and tumor cells. Monocytes help the immune system destroy viruses, bacteria, and fungi and largely contribute to the body’s healing and repair.
- Increased blood flow
During a whole-body cryotherapy session, the peripheral blood is sent to the core. After the session ends, the blood rushes back to bring more nutrients and oxygen to the extremities. As a result, cellular metabolism improves, promoting more active cell growth and better internal organ function. Which, in turn, suggests a positive effect of cryotherapy on the immune system.
- Hormonal system balance
What do laughter, chocolate, and cryogenic therapy have in common? They all trigger the release of happy hormones, a.k.a. endorphins, into the bloodstream, making you feel calm, relaxed, and positive. Cryotherapy is reported to decrease cortisol, improve sleep, and relieve stress and anxiety. Cortisol is known to suppress the immune system’s ability to fight illnesses. Moreover, chronic stress may prompt inflammatory responses from the immune system. By easing stress, cryotherapy boosts immunity and general well-being.
What are the advantages of whole-body cryotherapy over other cold therapies?
It’s fast. A session takes only 3 minutes.
It’s comfortable. No unpleasant feelings caused by contact with freezingly cold water.
It’s pain-free. Unlike ice baths, which can soak the skin and cause redness, irritation, and pain, whole-body cryotherapy involves dry cold air, hence less adverse effects.
It’s safe. Due to the cold in an ice bath penetrating deep into the muscles, there is a risk of overcooling. Whole-body cryotherapy operates on the skin level and does not affect muscle tissue.
While extreme cold exposure is not a cure-all, the research confirms the benefits of whole-body cryotherapy for the immune system and overall well-being. If you haven’t tried cryotherapy, now might be a good time to give it a chance.
