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Published Nov 30, 2023

AMA #13: Winter Months & Sickness, Wim Hof Breathing & Stressors

Andrew Huberman delves into the science behind winter sickness, exploring the role of indoor behavior and humidity in the spread of colds and flus, while also highlighting the benefits of nasal and Wim Hof breathing techniques for respiratory health and stress management.
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  • Cold Weather

    Winter months bring a higher prevalence of colds and flus, largely due to shorter days and colder temperatures. explains that these conditions lead people to spend more time indoors, increasing the likelihood of virus transmission due to closer proximity 1. Additionally, heated indoor environments tend to dry out nasal passages, which are crucial for defending against infections 2.

    In the winter months, as we're calling it, involves at least two things. Shorter days, which means what? It means less sunlight and either more artificial light or more darkness, depending on how much artificial light you rely on.

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    Huberman emphasizes the importance of maintaining nasal moisture to reduce susceptibility to colds and flus 3.

       

    Proximity

    Physical proximity plays a significant role in the transmission of colds and flus, particularly during winter. notes that being close to someone who is sneezing or coughing increases the likelihood of contracting an illness 4. This is exacerbated by the fact that people spend more time indoors during colder months, which naturally brings them into closer contact with others 1.

    Physical proximity is a key variable in terms of transmission of cold, flu.

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    Huberman advises maintaining distance from those who are visibly ill to minimize the risk of infection 5.

       

    Humidity

    Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial in reducing the prevalence and severity of colds and flus during winter. highlights that dry indoor air can compromise the mucosal lining of nasal passages, making individuals more susceptible to infections 6. Using humidifiers can help keep these passages moist and better equipped to fend off viruses 5.

    Keeping the air that you breathe, especially at night, sufficiently humidified is one great way to try and offset colds and flus.

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    Huberman also suggests rehydrating nasal passages after exposure to dry air, such as after outdoor exercise in cold weather 3.

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