How to Does cold really help us burn fat? This is what science says about it

When we seek to lose body fat at all costs, there are many strategies that come to mind, such as long fasts (we do not recommend them, unlike intermittent fasting), consuming shakes that can even be dangerous for health, or exposure to cold. For cold exposures, what is usually done is to expose the body to cold conditions (usually in the form of immersion in water, since water facilitates heat transfer efficiently) to obtain a long list of other extremely speculative benefits. What effects does the cold have? One of the most frequently discussed purported results is increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation, which has led some to suggest that frequent exposure to cold is an effective way to facilitate fat loss. The idea is that exposure to cold will acutely increase the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, shivering, and the activation of brown adipose tissue (a type of adipose tissue whose main function is to generate heat, so the greater the activity, the increased fat burning). Activation of the sympathetic nervous system increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation, and shivering increases energy expenditure through increased muscle activity. It was originally thought that adults had very little brown adipose tissue and that it was not much involved, but a study (study) has found that adults have more brown adipose tissue and that this tissue is stimulated by exposure to cold. Upon stimulation, brown adipose cells increase their metabolic rate in order to generate heat. Therefore, energy expenditure and fat oxidation are acutely increased due to these impacts on the sympathetic nervous system, shivering, and activation of brown adipose tissue. What does the scientific evidence say? In a study (study) it was observed that the amount of calories that are spent during immersion in cold water, despite the effects that cold has on our body, is only 11 kcal per hour, which would mean that throughout a day of cold immersion only 250 kcal would be spent (dangerous and meaningless). In addition to the low number of calories burned during cold water dives, there are several risks. Among these, we find the most significant, which is hypothermia. In certain individuals with pre-existing risk factors, it can cause arrhythmia and cardiac arrest. However, for fatal arrhythmias to occur, predisposing factors such as coronary artery disease or myocardial hypertrophy are necessary. Conclusions We should always be skeptical of "science" interventions that are driven by mechanisms, anecdotes, or intuition. Remember that not everything that is fascinating can be used instead of another adjective, and not everything that can be put into practice is fascinating. Therefore, as we always comment at Vitoria, it is always best to go to a nutrition and physical exercise professional to help you with your completely individualized diet plan and routine. In Vitoria, | Science points to a new culprit for our sleep problems: lack of vitamin D In Vitoria, | This fall creates your gym at home with these training rubbers for less than 3 euros in Carrefour, thank q.