Have you ever wondered about the effects of heating and cooling your home on your health and wellbeing? It’s a topic which has been debated for years, and there are positives and negatives on both sides. We’re here to dispel the myths and share our expert knowledge of how a cold house affects your health. To summarise, while there are some enticing potential benefits like improved weight loss, maintaining a comfortable temperature in the home is likely to be the safest and healthiest option for most people. Read on to find out how and why from the experts at Northern Energy.
The older generation
For those of us who are a little older, a cold house can be more of a concern and bring greater risks. A report from Age UK found that a cold house is a "major factor" in two out of five extra winter deaths in the older generation. The NHS spends millions of pounds on caring for older people with heart attacks, stroke, and respiratory problems caused by excessive cold. In contrast, Scandinavian countries like Sweden have lower rates of cold-related deaths despite experiencing much colder winters.
Risk of infection
Living in a cold house can also increase the risk of respiratory infections like flu, particularly in older people and young children. Cold temperatures can dry out the mucus that helps the body fight off viruses, making it easier for infections to take hold. Respiratory disorders like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are also more common in damp and cold environments, with people living in some of the coldest homes being three times more likely to die from an illness caused by the cold.
Cardiovascular disorders and Hypothermia
Cold temperatures can also have negative effects on cardiovascular health. Fluctuations in blood pressure can lead to blood clotting and trigger heart attacks and strokes, which account for 40% of extra winter deaths. Hypothermia is another potential risk, particularly for vulnerable groups like older people and babies. Symptoms of hypothermia can be severe, including delirium, violent shivering, and unconsciousness.
Effect on mental health
In addition to the physical health risks associated with a cold house, there are also potential negative effects on mental health. Studies have shown that living in a cold and damp environment can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. This may be due to a combination of factors, including the stress of dealing with a difficult living situation, social isolation resulting from reluctance to have visitors in a cold and uncomfortable home, and the physical discomfort of being cold. Maintaining a comfortable temperature in the home can help to promote better mental health and well-being during the winter months.
Any potential benefits of a cold house?
While the negative effects of a cold house on health are significant, there may be some potential benefits to living in a colder environment. Studies have suggested that exposure to colder temperatures can help to improve the body's ability to burn calories and increase metabolism, potentially aiding in weight loss. Additionally, exposure to cold temperatures may help to strengthen the immune system, leading to improved overall health. However, it's important to note that these potential benefits must be weighed against the significant risks associated with living in a cold house, particularly for vulnerable populations like older people and young children.
Keep your home warm and cosy!
While there may be some potential benefits to living in a colder environment, such as improved metabolism and a stronger immune system, the negative effects of a cold house on health are significant. For vulnerable populations like older people and young children, the risks associated with living in a cold house are particularly high, including an increased risk of respiratory infections, cardiovascular problems, and hypothermia. It is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home to promote better health and well-being during the winter months. Ultimately, the benefits of a warmer and more comfortable living environment far outweigh any potential benefits of living in a colder one. By taking steps to maintain a comfortable temperature in our homes, we can protect our physical and mental health, especially during the winter months.
Any advice for keeping your home warm?
Firstly, try to reduce the heat loss in your home. This can range from sealing gaps under doorframes to improving the insulation in your loft. If you are looking for opportunities specific to your property, consult your EPC rating which should have been provided upon renting or buying your property. Mostly, ensure your property has sufficient energy supply and you don’t run out of heating oil or LPG. Get in touch for an off-grid energy quote!
If you are concerned about your energy bills whilst also trying to keep your home warm in the winter, check out our recent blog with top tips to save on energy bills this winter!