Experts Warn of Health Risks Amid Rising Trend of Cold Bathing in Sweden
With cold bathing trending in Sweden, experts highlight possible mental health benefits but warn of serious risks like nerve damage and drowning.
- • Cold bathing is increasingly popular in Sweden, promoted for health benefits with limited scientific proof.
- • Mark Harper suggests mental health benefits may come from social interaction and personal challenge, not just cold exposure.
- • Mike Tipton warns of serious risks like nerve damage and drowning associated with prolonged cold exposure.
- • Experts recommend cold bathing only with professional supervision and safety measures in place.
Key details
Cold bathing has surged in popularity across Sweden, fueled by social media and historic claims of health benefits such as improved blood circulation and reduced inflammation. Participants often share feelings of well-being after immersing in cold water, but scientific evidence supporting these benefits remains limited. According to a report by Göteborgs-Posten, anesthesiologist and researcher Mark Harper acknowledges a plausible positive effect on mental health, but notes it's unclear whether benefits stem from the cold exposure itself or from social interaction, challenge, and enhanced self-confidence. Harper stresses the importance of professional guidance for safe practice.
However, experts caution against the potential dangers of cold bathing. Mike Tipton, a physiologist at the University of Portsmouth, highlights risks including nerve damage and drowning due to hyperventilation if individuals overexpose themselves to cold water. Tipton advises that cold bathing should be done with lifeguards or experienced swimmers present to minimize hazards.
The growing trend, while offering potential mental health advantages, demands caution and responsible practice to avoid serious health risks. Safety recommendations emphasize the need to balance these potential benefits with precautionary measures to protect participants.