Recent studies have revealed a surprising trend: the average human body temperature has been steadily declining over the past two centuries. The widely accepted “normal” body temperature of 98.6°F, established by German physician Carl Reinhold August Wunderlich in the 1800s, is now being questioned. Modern research indicates that this standard may be too high for today’s population.
A study conducted by Stanford University researchers found that the average body temperature of Americans has decreased since the 19th century. By analyzing data from three distinct historical periods, the researchers discovered that the body temperature of men born in the early to mid-1990s is, on average, 1.06°F lower than that of men born in the early 1800s. Similarly, women born in the 2000s have an average body temperature that is 0.58°F lower than those born in the 1890s.
The decline in body temperature is attributed to various factors, including changes in our environment and lifestyle. Improved healthcare, reduced inflammation, and advancements in technology have all contributed to this physiological shift. The researchers propose that the decrease in body temperature reflects a true historical pattern rather than measurement errors or biases.
Interestingly, the study also found that body temperature varies throughout the day and across different age groups. For example, temperatures tend to be higher in the afternoon compared to the morning and are generally lower in older adults. Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend indicates a gradual decline in average body temperature over time.
This finding has significant implications for medical practice and public health. Physicians and healthcare providers may need to reconsider what constitutes a “normal” body temperature and adjust their diagnostic criteria accordingly. As our understanding of human physiology continues to evolve, it is essential to stay informed about these changes and their potential impact on health and well-being.
Sources:
https://newatlas.com/science/humans-body-temperature-decrease/