A recent study conducted by UCL found that swimming in cold water can have a significant impact on common symptoms of menopause. This unique practice, popular among outdoor swimmers and athletes, is now becoming a surprisingly effective treatment for the discomforts of menopause.
How swimming in cold water can help with menopausal symptoms
A detailed study was carried out on 1,114 women, 785 of whom had reached menopause. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cold water on menopausal symptoms, with a particular focus on the effects of cold water on women’s health and well-being.
The results were very promising. According to the survey results, a significant number of women reported significant improvements in several physical and psychological symptoms.
Approximately 46.9% of women felt less anxious, 34.5% felt their mood swings improved, and 31.1% reported an improvement in their overall mood, a common symptom of menopause. I experienced relief from hot flashes.
Physical fitness is essential to overall health and well-being
It was found that the majority of women used cold water swimming specifically to reduce symptoms. The testimonies of the women who participated in the study painted a fairly vivid picture of how they perceived cold water swimming to be like.
Many people describe it as an immediate stress and anxiety reliever as well as a soothing activity. One participant said:
“Cold water is wonders. Cold water saved my life. I can do anything in water. All symptoms (physical and mental) disappear and I feel like my best self. Masu.”
Health benefits and beyond
Professor Joyce Harper, lead author of the study, said ice baths have long been used for stress relief and muscle repair in athletes, but this study highlights the activity’s potential to alleviate physical symptoms in menopausal women. He said he made it. These symptoms include hot flashes, aches and pains.
She further added:
“More research needs to be done on the frequency, duration, temperature, and exposure required to elicit symptom relief. However, our findings may provide an alternative solution for women suffering from menopause. We hope we can encourage more women to take part in menopause.” Sports. ”
What this research means for women
Most of the women in the study swam in both winter and summer, and primarily wore swimsuits rather than wetsuits. Apart from treating menopause, they cite spending time outdoors, improving mental health, and exercise as the main motivations for cold water swimming.
The researchers also noticed that women who swam longer generally had more pronounced treatment effects. It was emphasized that cold water swimming is not only a great way to get fit, but also allows you to immerse yourself in nature, often with friends, and build a great sense of community.
Contains some potential risks
The researchers were also keen to stress that cold water swimming comes with certain risks. As Professor Harper explained, these include potential hypothermia, cold water shock, heart rhythm disturbances and even the risk of drowning.
We also need to look at water quality standards, especially in the UK’s rivers and seas, as untreated sewage pollution can cause infections such as gastroenteritis.
Despite these risks, the possibility of finding alternative natural ways to alleviate menopausal symptoms is promising. As more research is conducted, we will continue to learn and understand the best ways to maximize the potential of cold water swimming for the health of women around the world.