Recent Blog Articles
Poverty, homelessness, and social stigma make addiction more deadly
Sugar: How sweet it is... or is it?
Cardiovascular safety from prostate cancer drugs remains uncertain
Rising alcohol use among older adults
Easily distracted? Try meditation
Harvard Health Ad Watch: Can a wearable device reduce stress?
Is metformin a wonder drug?
Listening to your hunger cues
Does your child need to bathe every day?
Can flavonoids help fend off forgetfulness?
Heart Health
Cold-water dips: Healthy or risky?
- By Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
Swimming in cold water is generally safe, but some people should be cautious.
Few things are more invigorating than a dip in the ocean, a lake, or any cool body of water, especially during late summer’s heat. A rare breed of hardy souls — mostly extreme athletes — even seek out ice-swimming competitions in the winter.
Some people swear by the health perks of cold-water immersion, which allegedly includes fat loss, improved sleep, and reduced inflammation — all of which may benefit cardiovascular health. But so far, the evidence is pretty shallow.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
You might also be interested in…
Workout Workbook: 9 complete workouts to help you get fit and healthy
The numbers are shocking. Just two out of 10 American adults meet recommended levels of physical activity. Nearly three out of 10 Americans ages 6 and older admit they aren’t active at all, despite reams of research proving that exercise is a powerful preventive, and sometimes an antidote, for disability and illness. This Special Health Report, Workout Workbook: 10 complete workouts to help you get fit and healthy, features nine excellent workouts that will challenge your body and spirit in a variety of ways while warding off boredom.
