The Science of Cold Exposure

This chapter delves into the physiological and psychological effects of cold exposure on the body, particularly through practices like cold plunges and saunas. It emphasizes recent scientific discoveries on how the body adapts to cold, the sympathetic nervous system's role, and the importance of duration and discomfort in maximizing health benefits.

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In this episode, my guest is Susanna Søberg, PhD. She earned her doctoral degree at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, researching the effects of deliberate cold and deliberate heat exposure on metabolism and other aspects of human physiology. We discuss how cold or sauna can improve metabolism, cardiovascular and brain health, balance hormones, and decrease inflammation. Dr. Søberg discusses how deliberate cold protocols can improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity and trigger release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine which enhance energy, mood, and focus. We compare cold showers and cold immersion, traditional and infrared saunas, and other variables. This episode provides actionable tools and answers to common questions about the use of deliberate cold and heat to improve health.

For the full show notes, visit hubermanlab.com.