The Ice Hack Diet

The ice hack diet is a trending diet that has recently gained popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok. The diet involves consuming a mixture of ice, apple cider vinegar, and a supplement to burn fat and boost metabolism. Many people have claimed to have lost weight or improved their health using the ice hack. However, there are also several critiques and explanations of the ice hack diet questioning its effectiveness, safety, and scientific basis.

In this article, I will take a closer look at the ice hack diet, verify its claims, examine the scientific evidence on whether core body temperature has an effect on weight loss, and provide insights on how to be a critical consumer of health information.

The Ice Hack Diet proposes that having a lower internal body temperature could improve fat burning. However, the online promotion is primarily aimed at selling a costly dietary supplement containing ingredients from the Himalayan Alps. Similar to many popular diet fads or supplements, there is often a small grain of scientific evidence behind the assertions, but it tends to be exaggerated or misinterpreted.

The sellers of the ice hack diet supplement make three claims based on scientific studies to market their product.

Claim #1: Low inner body temperature is a common factor in overweight women and men.

This claim is based on a study from Stanford University, but the study merely analyzed body temperature data over 157 years without any focus on weight. It found a slight decrease in inner body temperature due to changing environmental conditions, but it did not establish a connection between low inner body temperature and obesity.

Claim #2: Inner body temperature plays a role in how your body metabolizes fat.

The reference here is a study titled "Association of body temperature with obesity: The CoLaus study", which did find a correlation between body temperature (not inner body temperature) and obesity markers, but it indicated the opposite relationship. Higher body temperature was associated with obesity. However, correlation does not imply causation. While there is a correlation between higher body temperature and obesity markers, it does not mean that having a higher body temperature directly causes obesity. Other factors may be at play, and the relationship might be more complex than it appears.

Claim #3:  When inner body temperature is low, your metabolism is slow.

This claim is based on a review titled "Do the obese have lower body temperatures? A new look at a forgotten variable in energy balance". While the review mentions that lower core temperatures might be a factor in slower metabolism, it does not quantify its significance or assert that low inner body temperature or a slower metabolism directly cause obesity.

In summary, these claims use scientific references but misinterpret or exaggerate their findings to support the ice hack diet supplement's marketing. The studies mentioned do not provide strong evidence for the claims made by the sellers.

After dispelling the extravagant claims of ice hack supplement sellers, you might be left wondering: Is there any scientific substance behind the concept of core body temperature affecting weight loss? Let's delve into the findings of four intriguing scientific studies to uncover the truth.

Study #1

In a study conducted in 2014, scientists have tested this idea by measuring the body temperature of obese and lean people over a 20-hour period. They found that the obese people had a lower body temperature than the lean people, but only during the day. At night, the body temperature of the two groups was the same.

This suggests that obese people may have a harder time burning calories during the day, but not at night. This could be a reason why they are more likely to gain weight.

However, the study was small and did not investigate whether raising core body temperature can help people lose weight. So, it does not conclusively prove a direct link between inner body temperature and weight loss or weight gain. 

Study #2 

A study conducted in 2018, found that people with obesity are less likely to cool down quickly when immersed in cold water than people who are not obese. This is because the fat tissue in their bodies acts as an insulator. Similarly, individuals with obesity are more prone to experiencing heat stress in hot environments. This is because their bodies must exert greater effort to maintain a cool temperature.

Overall, the findings indicate that obesity significantly affects the body's ability to regulate temperature. However, it's less likely that variations in thermoregulatory capacity are a major cause of obesity.

Study #3

In a study conducted in 2011, researchers were investigating whether obesity is associated with having a lower body temperature. They conducted two studies.

In the first study, they gave temperature-sensing capsules to both non-obese and obese adults and monitored their core body temperatures continuously for 24 hours. The results showed that there was no significant difference in average daily body temperature between non-obese and obese individuals.

In the second study, they repeated the same experiment with normal-weight and obese participants, but this time they monitored temperatures for over 48 hours and kept track of their activities. Again, they found no significant differences in the 24-hour temperature patterns between normal-weight and obese subjects. However, they did observe that, on average, women had slightly higher body temperatures than men.

In conclusion, the study suggests that obesity, in general, is not linked to having a lower core body temperature.

Study #4

A study from 2014, aimed to compare body temperature responses in obese and non-obese females during exercise in a hot environment while controlling for metabolic heat production and hydration.

Twenty healthy females, half of whom were obese and half non-obese, were made to cycle for 60 minutes in a warm setting. They were either assigned a fixed level of metabolic heat production or a set workload based on body surface area. The researchers monitored various parameters like rectal temperature, skin temperature, oxygen uptake, and sweat rate. Importantly, the participants remained well-hydrated throughout the exercise.

The results showed that when obese and non-obese individuals had similar levels of heat production and were well-hydrated, there were no significant differences in their body temperatures. In both cases, their core and skin temperatures were quite similar at the end of the exercise.

In conclusion, this study found that when factors like metabolic heat production and hydration were controlled, there were no notable differences in body temperature responses between obese and non-obese females during exercise in a hot environment.

Taken together, these studies provide a nuanced view of the relationship between obesity and body temperature. While there are some differences in temperature regulation between obese and non-obese individuals, they do not suggest that lower inner body temperature is a primary or direct cause of obesity. Obesity is a multifaceted condition influenced by various factors, including diet, physical activity, genetics, and metabolism.

Therefore, the claims made by the ice hack diet advertisers, which implies that lowering inner body temperature through ice consumption is a straightforward solution for obesity, lack strong scientific support based on the available research. Weight management is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive approach addressing multiple contributing factors.

Influencers on social media platforms continue to promote the ice hack diet, despite its lack of scientific evidence, for a number of reasons, including:

• The allure of rapid weight loss and improved health: The ice hack diet promises quick and easy results, which is a powerful marketing tool. In a world where weight management strategies can be complex and time-consuming, the simplicity of the ice hack diet (mixing ice, apple cider vinegar, and a supplement) appeals to many people.

• The controversial nature of the diet: The ice hack diet is a controversial topic, which can generate curiosity and engagement. This can lead to higher viewership and engagement on influencers' content.

• The potential for financial gain: Influencers can earn money by 

promoting products and services to their followers. Some supplement companies may offer lucrative sponsorships or affiliate marketing deals to influencers who promote the ice hack diet.

• Lack of knowledge: Some influencers may simply not be aware of the lack of scientific evidence to support the ice hack diet. They may believe that the diet is effective and that they are helping their followers by promoting it.

In other words, influencers promote the ice hack diet because they believe it will help them attract more followers, generate more engagement, and make more money. They may not be aware of the lack of scientific evidence to support the diet, or they may simply not care.

1. Be Critical of Trendy Diets: When you come across a trendy diet like the ice hack diet, approach it with skepticism. Remember that quick fixes and easy solutions for weight loss often sound too good to be true.

2. Seek Scientific Evidence: Before trying any diet or health regimen, look for credible scientific evidence supporting its claims. Don't rely solely on anecdotal testimonials or influencer endorsements. Scientific studies and research should provide the foundation for any dietary choices.

3. Understand Correlation vs. Causation: Be cautious when interpreting scientific studies. Understand the difference between correlation and causation. Just because two variables are correlated does not mean one causes the other. Further research is needed to establish causation.

4. Consider Multiple Factors: Weight management and health are influenced by numerous factors, including diet, physical activity, genetics, and metabolism. Avoid diets that oversimplify the complex nature of obesity or health.

5. Consult Professionals: If you're considering making significant changes to your diet or health routine, consult with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and goals.

6. Be Wary of Influencer Marketing: Influencers on social media may promote products or diets for financial gain. Always question the motivations behind endorsements and remember that influencers may not have the necessary expertise to provide accurate health advice.

7. Promote Science-Based Information: Help spread awareness about the importance of science-based health information. Share articles, studies, and resources that provide accurate and evidence-based insights into health and weight management.

In summary, it's essential to approach trending diets and health claims with a critical mindset, prioritize scientific evidence, and consult professionals when making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle. Don't be swayed by marketing tactics, and remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle involves a holistic approach that goes beyond quick fixes.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author of this article is not a medical professional, and the information presented here is based on research and personal knowledge.

Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or any related materials.

The author does not endorse or recommend any specific diet, supplement, or health regimen. Any decisions you make regarding your health should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide you with personalized advice based on your individual needs and circumstances. 

The information provided in this article is intended to educate and inform, but it is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. Please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns about your health or well-being.