Why are some people more sensitive to cold than others?
Have you ever wondered why you might be bundled up in layers while your friend comfortably strolls around in a light jacket, even in the same chilly weather? Feeling cold can make even simple tasks like commuting or walking your dog a daily challenge. Picture this: you're braving the frosty morning to catch the train, but your fingers and toes are numb, making the commute something you dread. Cold intolerance is not a disease, but it can disrupt routines and diminish the joy in everyday activities.
Possible Reason Why Some People Feel Colder Than Others
Body Composition
Body fat acts as a natural insulator. People with less body fat have less insulation against the cold, leading to quicker heat loss. This means that individuals with a lower body fat percentage often feel colder than those with a higher body fat percentage.
However, recent study also finds out that muscular individuals are less susceptible to heat loss and cold injury, and may be better at manual tasks in cold conditions than nonmuscular individuals.
Metabolic Rate
Your metabolic rate significantly affects how you handle cold temperatures. A higher metabolic rate helps generate more internal heat, making individuals feel warmer. Factors such as age, sex, and fitness level can affect metabolic rate, with younger, more active individuals typically having a higher metabolic rate.
Circulation Issues
Poor circulation can cause extremities like fingers and toes to feel cold. Conditions like Raynaud’s disease, where blood flow to extremities is reduced in response to cold or stress, can make this problem even more pronounced.
Hormonal Differences
Hormonal variations, especially thyroid hormone levels, influence body temperature regulation. Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, can cause increased sensitivity to cold. Women may also experience more significant fluctuations in body temperature due to hormonal changes during their menstrual cycle.
The Importance of Keeping Warm
Staying warm is not only about comfort but also crucial for health. Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to conditions like hypothermia and frostbite, and it can exacerbate issues like arthritis, making it essential to take measures to stay warm during cold weather.
Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), leading to impaired brain function and other serious complications. Even mild hypothermia can cause shivering, exhaustion, and confusion, making it hard to perform even simple tasks. Keeping warm helps avoid these health risks.
Practical Tips to Stay Warm
Dress in Layers
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer. This layering helps trap heat while protecting from the wind and moisture.
Invest in Quality Footwear and Gloves
When it’s cold outside, your body makes sure to keep the blood flowing to your core and vital organs to keep them warm. This can change the amount of blood flow to your hands and feet, making them feel cold. To keep extremities warm, choose insulated and waterproof boots. Wool or thermal socks add an extra layer of insulation, keeping toes warm and dry. Wear gloves while you're outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure of your hands to cold air, water, or snow.
Stay Active
Physical activity increases heat production. Simple exercises, like jumping jacks or brisk walking, can get your blood flowing and help you stay warm. Even light indoor activities can boost your metabolism and contribute to warmth.
Active Heating Technology - Heated Apparel
For those seeking an extra boost of warmth, heated apparel provides a modern solution. ororo heated clothing integrates safe, battery-powered heating elements to distribute heat evenly across the garment.
How Heated Apparel Works
Heated apparel usually features adjustable heat settings, allowing you to tailor the temperature to your comfort. The heating elements, powered by batteries, target key areas, ensuring warmth where it’s needed most.
Advantages of Heated Apparel
Wearing multiple layers of clothing primarily helps to retain the heat your body generates. However, it often leaves us feeling bulky and clumsy, particularly when we want to stay active. For some individuals, especially the elderly and those with certain medical conditions, generating enough body heat can be a challenge, leading to persistent feelings of cold despite wearing sufficient layers. Heated clothing provides a safe and efficient solution by generating warmth. Additionally, users can adjust the settings to their preferred comfort level, ensuring optimal warmth without the bulk.
How to Choose Heated Apparel
Making heated clothing involves sophisticated technology, from the heating elements to the battery. High-quality heated jackets or vests should heat up quickly, provide adjustable heating levels that suit most people’s needs, and offer long-lasting warmth. Selecting a reputable brand with extensive experience is crucial to ensure durability and effectiveness.
ororo is a trustworthy brand that pioneered heated apparel in North America. With nine years of experience and an impressive 4.7 rating on Trustpilot, ororo offers a diverse range of heated apparel, backed by a 3-year warranty and a 30-day return policy.
The heated jackets are ideal for resisting water and wind during the coldest months, while heated gilets can serve as an excellent mid-layer or be worn on milder spring or autumn days. Moreover, heated gloves and scarves are perfect for keeping your hands and neck warm.
Understanding why some people feel colder than others helps in adopting effective strategies to stay warm. By dressing in layers, investing in proper footwear, staying active, and considering heated apparel, you can keep the cold at bay. Staying warm not only enhances comfort but is essential for health and well-being. This winter, embrace the warmth with our innovative heated apparel and make the cold season more enjoyable.