Could a cooler room help you burn more calories? scientists investigate.

NCT ID NCT01568671

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 05, 2026 · Updated 7 times

Summary

This study looked at how being in different temperatures (from about 61°F to 88°F) affects how many calories healthy adults burn. Researchers also checked for brown fat activity, a type of fat that burns energy to keep you warm. 104 healthy men and women stayed in a hospital unit for up to 14 days, spending time in a special room set to various temperatures while their calorie burning and body temperature were measured. The goal is to better understand the link between temperature, brown fat, and weight control.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this study could help explain why some people gain weight more easily than others, pointing toward new approaches for weight management.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study with no treatment being tested. Results may not lead to any direct medical application or benefit.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Obesity obesity disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

NORMAL PHYSIOLOGY OBESITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.