India, March 31 -- New research from the University of Ottawa suggests that repeated cold-water immersion can help the body better manage cellular stress, suggesting that these adaptations could offer protection against aging and disease, and indicating that cold acclimation may be more than just a wellness trend.

Led by postdoctoral fellow Kelli King and Professor Glen Kenny, the research involved ten healthy young males who underwent cold-water immersion at 14degC (57.2degF) for one hour each day over seven days. Blood samples were collected before and after the acclimation period to analyze cellular responses.

"Our findings indicate that repeated cold exposure significantly improves autophagic function, a critical cellular protective m...