Winter wellness Trends Under Scrutiny: Do Cold Plunges and Kombucha Really Boost Immunity?
London,UK – as temperatures drop,a surge in winter wellness trends – from icy cold plunges to fermented kombucha – promises to ward off seasonal illness. But do thes practices offer genuine health benefits, or are they fueled by placebo and social connection? Experts are weighing in, suggesting the advantages might potentially be less about specific remedies and more about holistic wellbeing.
The popularity of cold water swimming, and its indoor cousin, cold plunging, has exploded in recent years, with proponents claiming it fortifies the immune system. Immunologist Professor Eleanor Riley, speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Inside health podcast, explains the physiological response to a cold water immersion is real, triggering a temporary rise in white blood cell levels. “If you take a blood sample before and after a cold swim, white blood cell levels do rise,” she says, “But that’s because the body thinks an infection might be coming, so cells move into the bloodstream. Within hours the levels go back to normal so your body hasn’t created any more white blood cells.” This indicates a reactive, rather than proactive, immune boost.
Beyond the physiological effects, Professor Riley highlights the social aspect as a key benefit.”Part of the benefit…comes from building a social connection,” she notes, adding that feeling “brighter, more alert and more connected” has demonstrable physiological effects.
Other experts suggest the perceived benefits of these trends are largely indirect. Vaccine immunologist Professor John Tregoning believes stress reduction is a major factor.”It reduces stress as you’re outdoors with nice people in nice places. But you could get the same from dancing, singing or going for a run.” He points out that being in nature can lower blood pressure and stress hormones, which can suppress immune responses.
GP Dr. Margaret McCartney reinforces this idea, explaining that moderate exercise, in general, has been shown to reduce viral infections. “But that could be any form of exercise, not just cold water swimming,” she clarifies.
While the science doesn’t definitively support claims of a direct immune boost from cold plunges or specific wellness drinks like kombucha, experts agree that prioritizing stress reduction, social connection, and regular exercise are proven strategies for maintaining health throughout the winter months. The key takeaway? A holistic approach to wellbeing may be more effective than relying on any single “rapid fix.”
