An accessible cancer risk reduction tactic for everyone?

In one of the early posts I wrote, I covered the value of cold showers. My primary aim then was to maintain my white blood count through Chemo). I was originally pointed in this direction by an epic human and coach, Damon, now a dear friend. Since then, I’ve talked to many people about these (Samm, Grant, thank you). I’ve also read more widely and learned the following. Good things here, worth sharing!

Not only did they do a great job of supporting me though chemo, they also help keep our spirits up in tough times and as that link explains, they also can strengthen our immune system. Going a step further, and at the mental level they help strengthen our character: you know the unpleasant cold blast is coming but you chose to turn the handle anyway - repeatedly making this choice toughens our mental resilience.

All of this feels like an accurate representation of journey last year, to the point where I even started to crave them every day, the Endorphin release and lift being a very real effect!

Further reading since adds one other benefit I’d been unaware of. Inflammation is a natural process in the body but more and more work is being done around the relationship between tumour development and growth and inflammation. In some cases, inflammation is a natural response to an injury or infection that that should be treated, but it can also cause deeper issues.

My cage was really rattled when I found this piece on the National Library of Medicine suggesting that inflammation is actually a hallmark of cancer and to to 20% of cancer deaths are linked to inflammation. I’ve read so many pieces now on how cold showers can positively impact inflammation levels I felt I had to share.

To start with, I’d simply enjoy a regular show then switch for a 20-30 second cold blast to finish, but I’ve also seen research on the benefits of contrast showers, alternating hot and cold to cause vaso-system expansion and restriction. Essentially, this appears to pump the system and help flush the body of toxins. Stacked together, these are compelling benefits for a small change to something we’re all doing regularly enough anyway. I’m well out of treatment now but continuing with these on a daily basis.

Rounding out, I should note again, I’m simply a highly engaged patient who like to learn, I’ve no education or qualifications in the medical world. A quick check on my favourite research companion (Perplexity.ai) shows risks could include Cold Water Shock, Cardiovascular strain and various other risks and system stresses so do please check with your medic, do your own research etc.