A (possibly unpleasant) shower habit could help prevent you from getting sick

A University of Basel study suggests that daily cold showers may be linked to fewer days spent ill and fewer sick days off work. The findings matter because they point to a simple, though uncomfortable, habit that could have personal and environmental benefits.

The study involved 735 people taking showers at the coldest setting for 30 to 120 seconds each day over 12 weeks. Those who kept it up had 26% fewer days spent sick and took 31% fewer days off work; many participants dropped out during the first fortnight, and women were 33% more likely than men to drop out. The researchers also reported improved well-being among those who continued and estimated that the study saved 8.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. People with heart conditions are advised against cold showers, and anyone trying them should start gradually and stop or warm the water if they feel unwell.