A recent study in Physiology & Behavior found that a 30-minute session of chest-deep cold-water immersion at 16°C can lead to larger meals in the hours after. The result matters for fitness enthusiasts and anyone using cold-water therapy as part of wellness routines, a practice rising in popularity in Thailand.
In a small, controlled UK trial, 15 healthy, active adults aged 20–59 experienced three conditions in random order: cold water at 16°C, warm water at 35°C, and a thermoneutral air environment at 26°C. Sessions were conducted at the same time of day with identical pre-trial routines, including a standard breakfast.
The key finding: after cold exposure, participants ate about one-third more food than after warm-water exposure and about one-third more than after the neutral air condition. On average, post-immersion intake was about 2,783 kilojoules for the cold session, compared with roughly 1,817 kJ for warm water and 1,894 kJ for neutral air. Notably, participants did not report higher hunger or fullness.
Researchers also observed higher energy expenditure during the cold session, with visible shivering in many participants. After immersion, body temperature dropped more in the following minutes—a phenomenon known as the after-drop. The researchers suggest this delayed cooling may trigger a physiological drive to eat to generate heat through the thermic effect of food and restore thermal balance.
For Thai readers, these findings have practical relevance. Cold-water therapies—whether at Bangkok spas, fitness centers, or home routines—are commonly marketed for muscle recovery and mood benefits. This study suggests there could be an unintended impact on appetite, potentially affecting daily calories and weight management if not balanced with smart dietary choices.
The study’s small sample size and short-term focus are important caveats. It did not track total daily intake, nor did it assess appetite hormones such as ghrelin or leptin. More research is needed to determine if residents of Thailand or people in different climates show similar patterns and whether repeated exposure changes long-term weight.
Experts in Thai sports science caution that nutrition guidance may need updating alongside the popularity of cold-water immersion. Practitioners at Bangkok wellness centers recommend coordinating post-session meals with nutrition professionals to align with traditional Thai dietary principles—emphasizing fresh ingredients and balanced flavors while avoiding unnecessary calories after cold exposure.
Culturally, Thais value harmony between environment and health. While warming foods are traditionally linked to climate and energy balance, recent practices show that cold exposure can interact with appetite in nuanced ways. As Thailand’s wellness scene evolves, health, sports science, and nutrition professionals should consider environmental factors—heating, cooling, and humidity—as part of comprehensive well-being strategies.
Takeaways for practitioners and enthusiasts:
- If you use cold-water immersion for recovery or mood, plan your post-session meals thoughtfully.
- Consult a nutrition professional to design meals that support recovery without excess calories.
- Balance cold therapy with mindful eating that fits Thai dietary customs and preferences.
Future work should examine longer-term effects, repeated exposures, and how body composition or fitness level might influence this appetite response. Until then, a holistic approach—integrating recovery practices with careful nutrition—appears prudent for Thailand’s growing wellness community.
Data from the study indicate appetite increases occurred without changes in self-reported hunger. Energy expenditure and post-immersion physiology, including the after-drop, were noted. More research is needed to understand the role of hormones and long-term outcomes.