Is Temperature a Factor in Your Health?
By Tom Herrin
No matter what anyone does, it seems that there are frequently external factors involving their health. Finding ways to manage those factors may be what makes the difference between success and failure or, at least, the ability to improve in what you do. One of those factors is temperature, particularly the room temperature. For almost as long as most people can remember, there has been some kind of means of maintaining temperature at whichever place they wanted it to be. As some have studied the kinds of effects it can have on health, they have done a better job of perfecting ways to influence health through management of temperature.
Temperature and Sleep May Go Together Well
Some people have numerous problems with sleeping well. It may be from a variety of things, but some studies have indicated that there may be an ideal range of temperatures that supports sleep best. That range is 65-72 degrees with the optimal temperature being 68. Some of this is believed due to the fact that warmer temperatures may disrupt the sleep cycle, particularly Rapid Eye Movement. When this cycle is not allowed to be complete, the individual may feel extreme fatigue and be unable to perform many of the tasks required of them.
Weight Loss May Get a Boost in Some Temps
Anyone who has ever attempted to lose weight is likely aware of how frustrating it can be. When this happens, it can be discouraging and remove all of the motivation. Too many times they go off the deep end and begin making bad choices about their weight. In some studies, it has been found that there may be a very tight range of temperatures that are effective for losing weight. It is from 64-67 degrees. It is so specific that there must surely be something to it. For those who want a more aggressive approach, it is thought that those who shiver from the cold may increase their metabolism as much as five times.
It Is Pretty Personal
Whenever we have trouble with things affecting our health, we may agonize over what to do. As for sleeping, I can remember when I was young and did not have forced heat. Those nights were cold, but I slept really well with a heavy quilt pulled over me. I now make a point to turn down the thermostat each night before I go to bed. It seems to help me sleep better and longer. For me, it works.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Baton Rouge, La.