We are halfway through December already and for a lot of us, that means we’ve started to see a dip in the temperature, and to be honest, we’re already fighting for our lives out here to stay warm. Luckily, as we so often say, we’ve got science on our side, which means tips from scientists on how to stay warm this winter! Let’s not waste a minute more.
First, we need to understand something about the concept of staying warm, and that something is that it’s all a balancing act; meaning that we’re always trying to balance the amount of heat produced and the amount of heat lost. Take what’s happening to our bodies at this time for example, when we get cold we start shivering, and shivering generates heat. While this is going on blood flow is being diverted away from extremities to our torso to protect vital organs like our heart and lungs.
So now that we know what’s happening inside of our bodies when we get cold, let’s talk about how we can manipulate certain things to keep our body temperature as close to 98.6 degrees as best we can.
Layer, Layer, Layer
This is the first thing almost anyone will tell us to do in the cold, whether it’s just for sitting around our homes on a particularly cold day or preparing to be outside in the cold. Layering is a way of insulating your body and the best way to do so is by starting with a base of long underwear and wool socks and making sure to wear an external layer that is wind-proof and water-proof, but also breathable.
(image via: pinterest)
Get Physical
Doing something physical, even something as simple as running in place, causes your muscles to contract, which breaks down nutrients, which in turn generates heat. This heat production will help you maintain your body temperature.
Eat Up
Consuming more calories than what you’re burning will help your body deal with frigid temps. This is achieved by keeping your blood sugar up to give you the energy you need to stay warm when it’s cold out.
Just Say No to Alcohol
At least for now. It may seem like a great idea to have a mulled cider situation or even boozy hot chocolate when you’re cold, but alcohol actually drops your core body temperature. So reach for a warm beverage, but skip the ones with alcohol in them.
(image via: eco bud)