Cold water and your immune system – real studies, real results
You don’t need to spend 10 minutes in an ice bath to get the benefits. Two proper studies have shown how even short, regular cold exposure can seriously boost your immune response and reduce sick days.
Posted on Fri 16 May 2025 · by Danny
👉 In the Netherlands, over 3,000 people took part in a study where they ended their regular hot shower with 30 seconds of cold water for 30 days.
Result?They had a 29% reduction in sickness-related absences from work.They didn’t get ill less often, but they seemed to recover faster and stay more functional.
👉 In Germany, another study looked at people who did regular short cold water immersion (14°C).After a few weeks, they saw a 40% reduction in upper respiratory tract infections compared to those who didn’t do cold exposure.
This wasn’t just feeling better—it was measurable improvement in how the body handled illness.
Both studies found that cold water triggered increases in immune activity: more white blood cells, better lymphatic function, reduced inflammation, and faster recovery.
The takeaway?Even 30 seconds of cold water a day can make a difference.It’s simple, free, and you can start today.