30 Seconds SummaryResearch Spotlight: Cold exposure for fat loss: Physiology can be “cool” without being useful
- Science is fascinating but not all fascinating concepts are immediately applicable, especially in the realm of human physiology.
- Cold exposure increases sympathetic nervous system activity, shivering, and activates brown adipose tissue, which may increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation.
- Recent research suggests adults have notable amounts of brown adipose tissue, which can transform white adipose tissue to a state known as 'beige' fat under cold conditions.
- A study comparing winter-swimmers to a control group showed that swimmers were leaner and had higher energy expenditure during cold exposure.
- Despite some promising study results, the increase in energy expenditure from cold exposure is generally modest and varies greatly among individuals.
- Skeptical perspectives note that cold-induced energy increases might lead to compensatory appetite increases and do not significantly affect seasonal body composition changes.
- The practicality and safety of using cold exposure for fat loss are questionable, with potential severe cardiovascular risks associated with unaccustomed cold water immersions.
Stronger By Science
Eric Trexler
