Title: Air Conditioner and Health: Is My Air Conditioning Killing Me? | Time
Headings: You Asked: Is My Air Conditioner Killing Me?
You Asked: Is My Air Conditioner Killing Me?
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Content: But the U.S. population’s southward shift has allowed AC to catch up—and maybe draw even. Despite his concern for the planet, Cox says that AC can be life saving and beneficial. But he takes issue with what he calls our “lavish” use of any climate control conveniences. Setting our thermostats a bit higher in summer and a little lower in winter would benefit the environment without affecting anyone’s health, he says. In fact, a little thermal discomfort could be good for you. People tend to eat more and gain more weight when the temperature is perfectly cozy, Cox says. “ When we’re a little cold or a little warm, our metabolism runs faster,” he says. Research backs him up: One recent study found exposure to cold temps—enough to make you shiver—may increase your body’s stores of healthy, energy-burning brown fat. Cox adds that your body can adapt to a range of temperatures. (