“One common misunderstanding is that just avoiding oily or fatty foods will control cholesterol. In truth, the liver naturally produces cholesterol, and some people are genetically inclined to produce more. Conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, chronic kidney disease, and certain medications can raise cholesterol levels,” said Dr Saraf.

It’s also important to look at the overall quality of the diet. “Foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, added sugars, and refined carbs can harm cholesterol and triglyceride levels, even if they are vegetarian or homemade. On the flip side, foods rich in soluble fibre, such as oats, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help lower LDL or bad cholesterol by reducing its absorption,” said Dr Saraf.

Lifestyle habits matter too. “Regular exercise, keeping a healthy weight, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and not smoking all help maintain better cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health,” said Dr Saraf.

Why is LDL high? (Photo: Quora)

If cholesterol levels stay high despite making lifestyle changes, it is important to seek help. “A thorough medical evaluation can reveal if there is an underlying genetic or metabolic reason. For some people, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough, and medication might be necessary to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. Managing cholesterol should be seen as a mix of healthy eating, active living, and regular medical check-ups rather than relying on a single dietary change,” said Dr Saraf.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

Are there any health benefits to cold showering?

Dr Amit Saraf, director, department of internal medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, explained that cold-shock proteins are proteins in the body that are activated by exposure to cold. This explains why Warikoo swears by cold showers, which have become popular for their supposed wellness benefits.

“Being exposed to cold water can temporarily increase alertness, improve circulation, and create a feeling of freshness and mental energy. Some people also report a better mood and lower stress levels, likely due to the release of certain hormones and neurotransmitters in response to the cold. However, the scientific evidence supporting strong long-term health benefits from cold showers is limited,” said Dr Saraf.

According to Dr Saraf, cold showers should be viewed as just one part of a healthy lifestyle, not a standalone method for improving health.

Do you swear by cold showers? (Photo: AI Generated)

Is cold showering suitable for everyone?

Not necessarily, affirmed Dr Saraf. “Sudden exposure to cold water can lead to a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure. People with heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain respiratory issues, or those who are elderly and frail should be careful and seek medical advice before making cold showers a regular practice. Reactions to cold exposure can differ greatly from person to person,” mentioned Dr Saraf.

It was 4 years back that I came across the concept of cold-shock proteins.
I have been cold-water showering every morning ever since.
It started because of my fascination for the concept.
It continued because its the first hard thing I do every day that I nearly hate doing!…

— Ankur Warikoo (@warikoo) June 29, 2026

What to note?

The fact that someone has stuck to a habit for several years shows the value of discipline and routine. However, health practices shouldn’t be adopted just because they work for a public figure. “The best wellness habits are those that are safe, sustainable, and fit an individual’s health needs and preferences. Regular exercise, enough sleep, balanced nutrition, and managing stress have much stronger scientific backing for promoting long-term health than any single trend, including cold showering,” said Dr Saraf.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.