Lowering the temperature of an object, which in physical terms means decreasing the velocity of molecular motion, allows substances, to an extent, to "rest". This slows down the inevitable progression of entropy. In other words, lowering the heat energy contained in an object delays deterioration. Cold stops stuff from rotting.<--Otzi the Iceman
Were it not for the cold, we wouldn't have Otzi, who has taught us so much about our ancestors. He looks like a veteran NFL tackle, yes?
One comment about "cave men": They are usually depicted as scruffy-looking Nerf herders (well, maybe sheep herders); a respected paleontologist pointed out that most mammals are NOT scruffy but very carefully groomed. Otzi was in fact well appointed and maybe his teeth weren't in the best shape but he wasn't vermin-ridden and dirty.
I love it when our modern prejudices are blown away. In many ways our ancestors were better adapted to their environment than we are--we have yet to discover an obese mummy!
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