Thermal Stress Acclimation is the physiological adaptation process by which the body enhances its ability to maintain core temperature homeostasis and functional stability when exposed to extremes of heat or cold. This deliberate process leverages controlled thermal exposure to induce beneficial systemic changes, improving overall stress resilience and metabolic flexibility. It is a form of controlled hormesis.
Origin
This concept is rooted in environmental physiology and the study of human adaptation to diverse climates. Its clinical adoption in the wellness space is driven by research demonstrating the profound metabolic and endocrine effects of deliberate cold and heat exposure on systems like the cardiovascular and neuroendocrine axes.
Mechanism
Acclimation works by triggering the expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) during heat exposure, which protect cellular proteins from damage, and by activating brown adipose tissue (BAT) and improving non-shivering thermogenesis during cold exposure. Both processes enhance mitochondrial function and metabolic rate, while also modulating cortisol and norepinephrine release for improved stress response.
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