Effects of Short-Term Cold-Water Immersion on Decision-Making and Well-Being in Healthy Adults Aged 18 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how short-term full-body cold-water immersion affects decision-making, psychological well-being, and body functions compared to warm-water immersion. This behavioral study uses a randomized within-subject cross-over design and focuses on healthy adults aged 18 to 40 years. The aim is to better understand the effects of cold exposure on value-based choices and related physiological and psychological responses. Participants will attend two visits approximately 30 days apart. During each visit, they will undergo a 10-minute full-body head-out immersion in either cold water 10-16C or warm water 30-36C. The study measures responses before and after immersion, including heart and respiratory activity, skin conductance, pupil size, body temperature, blood samples, and various decision-making and psychological tasks. Each session includes resting and task-based evaluations to compare the effects of cold versus warm water. Throughout the study, participants will complete questionnaires on emotions, stress, self-efficacy, and well-being. Researchers will perform non-invasive recordings and collect blood samples at four time points during visits. The primary outcomes include risk-taking behavior, heart rate variability, skin conductance, and blood markers, all assessed on both visits. This comprehensive monitoring aims to capture changes in physiology, behavior, and psychological states linked to cold-water exposure.

Cold Water and Decision-Making