30 Seconds SummaryThe Benefits of Cryotherapy on Health and Performance
- Cryotherapy, involving cold exposure, activates beneficial physiological mechanisms that evolved for human survival under harsh conditions.
- Increases in norepinephrine from cryotherapy can enhance focus, mood, and may potentially treat depression and attention disorders.
- Cold exposure activates cold shock proteins that may prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by protecting brain synapses.
- Norepinephrine released during cryotherapy reduces inflammation by decreasing inflammatory cytokines, potentially easing conditions like arthritis.
- Cryotherapy might reduce inflammation and boost immune cell numbers, potentially increasing resistance to illnesses, contrary to old beliefs that cold exposure makes one sicker.
- In terms of athletic performance, cryotherapy is shown to aid recovery, increase work capacity, and improve aerobic performance through mitochondrial biogenesis.
- Timing of cryotherapy post-resistance training is crucial; immediate cold exposure might hinder muscle gains but it's beneficial if appropriately timed.
- While there's debate regarding cryotherapy and performance, evidence suggests that with proper application, it enhances health and exercise adaptations.
Biolayne
Andres Vargas
