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- Research Bites #6 – Boosting Metabolism with Cold Exposure
Research Bites #6 – Boosting Metabolism with Cold Exposure
✅ Research Bites #6 – Boosting Metabolism with Cold Exposure
📚 Today’s Bite
Cold exposure activates brown fat — the kind that burns energy and boosts metabolism.
In a 2015 study published in Diabetes, researchers found that repeated cold exposure stimulated brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic function in healthy men.
Unlike white fat (which stores energy), brown fat helps your body burn calories — especially in colder temps.
🧠 Why It Matters
Exposure to mild cold can “train” your body to become more metabolically efficient.
Translation: colder temps = better blood sugar control and a small increase in calorie burn — without changing your diet.
Brown fat burns glucose and fat to keep you warm
⚡Research
Hanssen, Martijn J. W., et al. “Short-Term Cold Acclimation Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.” Diabetes, vol. 64, no. 2, 2015, pp. 587–593.
Cold exposure may improve cardiovascular health and circulation
📌 Bite-Sized Fact
🧊 Brown fat burns glucose and fat to keep you warm
🫀 Cold exposure may improve cardiovascular health and circulation
🧠 Some studies link cold therapy to improved mood and reduced stress
Some studies link cold therapy to improved mood and reduced stress
🔁 Try This Today
End your shower with 30–60 seconds of cold water.
Or go for a brisk 5-minute walk in light clothing (jacket optional).
It doesn’t need to be ice baths or Wim Hof — just uncomfortable enough to feel the chill.
Repeat 3–4 times a week to build your body’s response.
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✌️ Until Tomorrow
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— Team Research Bites