Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 8, 2025
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring.
So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it.
But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be clouding your thinking.
And if you’re over 60, this news is even more concerning…
An eye-opening study published in The Journals of Gerontology finds your thermostat setting may be just as critical for your brain as it is for your comfort.
Researchers tracked home temperatures and cognitive performance in 47 older adults and uncovered something unexpected.
Your brain works best when your indoor environment stays between 68- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit.
Stray outside that range, and things start getting fuzzy—literally.
For every seven-degree change above or below this “cognitive comfort zone,” participants reported TWICE as many problems focusing on critical daily tasks.
In other words, being too hot or too cold doesn’t just make you uncomfortable—it could also make you less sharp.
Here’s how to keep your thermostat dialed into the cognitive sweet spot:
- Install a programmable thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures
- Use ceiling fans to distribute air more evenly
- Seal gaps and drafts around windows and doors
- Heat or cool only the rooms you use most
- Monitor indoor temps throughout the day
- Use curtains or blinds to help manage temperatures
Avoiding heating and cooling your home will save you money, but your brain will pay the price.
Consider maintaining a brain-friendly indoor temperature instead. It’s an investment in your cognitive health that will pay off in mental clarity and focus.
P.S. PLAY your way to better brain health!?
Source:
Baniassadi, A., Yu, W., Travison, T., Day, R., Lipsitz, L., & Manor, B. Home Ambient Temperature and Self-reported Attention in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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