Using Temperature for Performance, Brain & Body Health | Dr. Craig Heller

About this video

Dr. Craig Heller, a Stanford professor of biology and neurosciences, teaches Huberman how thermoregulation works and how, he argues, controlling core body temperature is one of the most powerful levers for mental and physical performance. Dr. Heller dispels common myths, explaining that a cold pack on the head or neck is not the optimal way to cool down and can, Huberman notes, be counterproductive and lead to hyperthermia. The conversation centers on glabrous skin surfaces, such as the palms, as routes for dumping heat. Dr. Heller describes laboratory work in which continuous cooling during uphill treadmill walking in heat roughly doubled endurance in a small group of subjects, and he recounts applications ranging from golfers and people with multiple sclerosis who are highly temperature-sensitive, to wearable cooling developed for Ebola workers who could only stay in protective gear for short periods.

Key takeaways

• Dr. Heller argues that controlling core body temperature is a powerful lever for performance.
• Dr. Heller explains that cooling the head or neck is not optimal and can be counterproductive.
• Dr. Heller describes palmar, glabrous surfaces as key routes for cooling the core.
• Dr. Heller recounts lab work where continuous cooling roughly doubled treadmill endurance in the heat.
• Dr. Heller notes that people with multiple sclerosis can be exceedingly temperature-sensitive.

Episode details: published October 4, 2021 · 274.8K views · 1:51:36 long. Summary written by Self Growth Videos from the episode itself. The science and protocols described are Andrew Huberman’s, presented for education — not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional before changing your own health practices.

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