Alcohol doesn't actually keep you warm, it just makes you feel warmer
Many of us have been told that alcohol can keep us warm on a cold night, but the truth is that it doesn't actually raise our body temperature. Instead, it increases blood flow to the skin, making us feel warmer. In this article, we will explore the science behind why alcohol makes us feel warmer and the dangers associated with relying on it to stay warm.
How alcohol affects our body
When we consume alcohol, it enters our bloodstream and affects our central nervous system. This is why we feel relaxed and less inhibited after a drink or two. Alcohol also causes blood vessels to expand, which increases blood flow to the skin and makes us feel warmer. This is why people often feel flushed and have rosy cheeks when they drink.
The dangers of relying on alcohol for warmth
While alcohol may make us feel warmer, it can be dangerous to rely on it for warmth in cold weather. This is because alcohol actually lowers our body temperature in the long run. This is due to the fact that alcohol dilates blood vessels which means that more blood flows to the skin, instead of being trapped in our core where it can keep us warm. As our core temperature drops, our body can become hypothermic, which can be life threatening in severe cases.
Alternatives to alcohol for staying warm
If you are looking for ways to stay warm on a cold day, there are many safe alternatives to alcohol that you can try. Dressing warmly and in layers is one of the most effective ways to keep your body temperature up. This includes wearing a hat, gloves, and warm socks, as well as a coat and scarf. Eating warm, nourishing foods like soup and drinking hot beverages like tea and coffee can also help to keep you warm from the inside out.
In conclusion, while alcohol may make us feel warmer on a cold day, it does not actually raise our body temperature and can be dangerous to rely on for warmth. By dressing warmly and eating hot, nourishing foods, we can stay warm and safe without putting ourselves at risk.