Cryotherapy for weight loss: an effective method for losing weight and burning calories

Cryotherapy is increasingly fascinating people looking for solutions to lose weight. This technique, which involves exposing the body to extreme cold, raises many questions about its real effectiveness on weight loss. Let's dive into the twists and turns of this method to sort out the truth from the lies and understand its real effects on our figure.

Cryotherapy: principles and effects on the body

Whole body cryotherapy is a technique that exposes the entire body to extremely low temperatures, typically between -110°C and -160°C, for short periods of time. This exposure to intense cold causes a physiological reaction in the body, stimulating various metabolic processes.

During a cryotherapy session, the body reacts by activating its defense mechanisms against the cold. This reaction leads to an increase in blood circulation and a stimulation of the metabolism . These effects can contribute to:

• Improve muscle recovery
• Reduce stress
• Promote better sleep
• Relieve certain pains

However, it is important to understand that cryotherapy does not have a direct slimming effect and does not act on cellulite. Contrary to popular belief, it does not specifically target fat cells.

Real Impacts of Cryotherapy on Weight Loss

Despite the claims of some cryotherapy centers, there is a lack of solid scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in achieving significant weight loss. It is essential to have realistic expectations about the results of this technique.

A 3-minute cryotherapy session is said to burn approximately 500 calories . While this may seem like an impressive number, it does not directly translate into significant weight loss. To put this into perspective, here is a comparison chart of calories burned during different activities:

It is important to note that cryotherapy in no way replaces a balanced diet and regular physical activity , which remain the pillars of sustainable and healthy weight loss.

Cryolipolysis: a targeted alternative for slimming down

Cryolipolysis, often confused with cryotherapy, is a separate technique that specifically targets fat cells. This method, more effective for locally reducing fat deposits, uses cold in a targeted manner to destroy adipocytes.

The results of cryolipolysis are more tangible in terms of body reshaping:

• Reduction in abdominal circumference of 2 to 4 cm in 3 to 6 months
• Reduction in the thickness of the fatty layer by 15 to 30% depending on the areas treated

However, it is important to understand that cryolipolysis, like cryotherapy, is not a miracle solution for weight loss. It is mainly intended for people close to their ideal weight who wish to refine certain areas that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Optimizing the effects of cryotherapy on the silhouette

Although cryotherapy is not a weight loss method per se, it can be integrated into a comprehensive approach to well-being and weight management. To maximize its potential benefits, here are some recommendations:

1. Combine cryotherapy with regular physical activity : Exposure to cold can improve recovery after exercise, allowing you to train more effectively.
2. Adopt a balanced diet : Cryotherapy will not compensate for an unbalanced diet. A healthy diet remains essential to achieve your weight goals.
3. Manage stress : The relaxing effects of cryotherapy can help reduce stress, a factor often linked to weight gain.
4. Improve your sleep : Quality sleep, potentially promoted by cryotherapy, is essential for maintaining a stable weight.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting cryotherapy sessions, especially for people suffering from obesity. This technique is not recommended as a primary method of weight loss for individuals who are significantly overweight.

Ultimately, cryotherapy can provide additional benefits in a weight loss process, but it will never replace the fundamentals of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Its use must be part of a holistic approach to well-being, keeping in mind that its direct effects on weight loss remain limited and not scientifically proven.