Dr. Berg’s Healthy Keto and Intermittent Fasting Podcast

Hot vs. Cold Showers: Which Is Actually Better?

5 snips
Apr 9, 2026
They compare cold and hot showers for workout recovery and when each helps or hinders adaptation. Cold exposure’s cognitive and immune perks get attention. Heat’s role in boosting blood flow, relaxation, and sleep is highlighted. Contrast therapy and sauna-plus-cold routines for circulation are discussed. Intermittent hypoxic training and other recovery tools like foam rolling and sleep are introduced.
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INSIGHT

Cold Therapy Can Hinder Exercise Adaptation

  • Cold therapy reduces inflammation but can blunt the adaptive benefits of exercise recovery.
  • Dr. Eric Berg explains exercise needs inflammation to trigger rebuilding, so icing after normal workouts may slow gains.
ADVICE

Use Heat After Workouts To Boost Recovery

  • Prefer hot showers for post-workout recovery to increase muscle relaxation, blood flow, and oxygen delivery.
  • Dr. Eric Berg notes heat relaxes the parasympathetic system and can improve sleep quality and extend sleep time.
ADVICE

Contrast Hot Cold Cycling To Increase Blood Flow

  • Combine cold and hot as contrast therapy to create vasoconstriction then vasodilation and increase blood flow.
  • Dr. Eric Berg recommends cold then hot cycles or sauna followed by cold immersion for a stronger effect.
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