University of New Hampshire
McNair Scholar, 2024
Major: Exercise Science
Mentor: Dr. Michael Brian
Research Title: Cool Solutions to a Hot Problem: Summer Cold Exposure as a Potential Attenuator of Cardiometabolic Disease
Abstract:
Global temperatures and the prevalence of obesity have been rising over the past few decades. Obesity rates are higher in the southern U.S. states, which align with average state temperature trends. Strategies have been employed nationwide to combat rising obesity prevalence. Research showing cold exposure’s effects on energy expenditure via shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis has been well established. However, no current research has investigated how exercise in acute cold exposure during extended heat exposure of the summer months can influence physiological adaptations. This crossover design aims to assess the effects of a summer cold-exposure protocol on 24-hour blood glucose and exercise energy expenditure as a tool to reduce the prevalence of obesity and cardiometabolic disease. The cold exposure exercise responses will be compared to responses of exercise in a thermoneutral environment. It is hypothesized that a 3-day intervention of cold exposure will yield positive adaptations to exercise energy expenditure and 24-hour blood glucose control compared to thermoneutral exercise.
