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Dopamine Fat Loss and Inflammation The Science of Cold Plunging

Key Takeaways

Cold plunging is not an efficient method for burning calories or losing fat.
A study showed no significant change in fat mass after 10 hours of cold exposure.
Cold exposure can increase dopamine levels significantly, which may boost mental health.
Cold plunging may help reduce inflammation through the hormone macin produced by brown fat.
It's recommended to avoid cold plunging shortly after workouts and before bed.

250%

Increase in dopamine concentrations from cold exposure.

10

Hours of cold exposure in the study with no significant fat mass change.

Inefficiency of Cold Plunging for Fat Loss

Cold exposure increases energy output but is not efficient for fat loss.
A study showed no significant change in fat mass after cold exposure.
Light walking is more effective for calorie burning than cold exposure.

Dopamine and Mental Health Benefits

Cold exposure can increase dopamine concentrations by over 250%.
The dopamine increase is slow and can last for several hours.
This may explain the reported 'high' feeling after cold plunges.

Inflammation Reduction through Cold Exposure

Cold exposure activates brown fat, which releases the hormone macin.
Macin helps decrease inflammation in the liver and body.
The process is linked to the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA.

Practical Recommendations

Avoid cold plunging after workouts to allow for necessary inflammation.
Do not cold plunge before bed as it may disrupt sleep.
Consider incorporating fatty fish into your diet for potential benefits.

Notable Quotes

"Cold exposure is not efficient for increasing calorie burning and losing fat."

"The dopamine rise wasn't just a quick spike; it was slow and steady."

"Cold exposure may change the hormonal landscape of our bodies."