The cold and snow are making a comeback. We take out the big wool sweaters, hats and gloves to cover our extremities and we prepare good infusions while continuing to do (a little) physical activity, at least 30 minutes a day. The advice to fight against the cold when the body is not yet accustomed to the drop in temperature, we know them. But did you know? You can also warm up… by eating! Because certain foods have the power to increase the production of heat by the body – we speak of “thermogenesis“. Yes, but here it is: to be warm in the middle of winter, you still have to break away from these received ideas that do more harm than good…
When it’s cold, alcohol warms
What we believe. When the temperatures are negative, there is nothing better than a “little pick-me-up” to warm up. A good excuse to enjoy mulled wine at the Christmas market…
Why is this wrong. Alcohol does not heat up! Certainly, when consuming an alcoholic drink, one feels a sensation of “heat”. For what ? Because alcohol dilates the blood vessels on the surface of the body. But the effect is only temporary: alcohol is also responsible for vasoconstriction (that is to say: a contraction of the blood vessels) which leads to a loss of body heat – result: a few minutes after the mulled wine, one is cold again.
- The board. We replace the mulled wine with hot chocolate or Christmas tea, with cinnamon or ginger: these two spices activate blood circulation… which warms up for good!
Read also:9 misconceptions about alcohol that it’s time to get rid of
When it’s cold, a wool sweater is enough
What we believe. The winter garment is of course the wool sweater, with its variations in mohair, cashmere or fleece. And to stay warm without sacrificing fashion, we opt for the big sweater on bare skin. So sexy!
Why this is a bad idea. Although warm, the traditional “big winter sweater” is not enough to protect against the cold. The right strategy is that of the onion, which consists of superimposing several layers of clothing, ideally with a cotton t-shirt, a woolen sweater and a coat.
- The board. The onion technique allows you to continue using your fall wardrobe. The thin layers of warm air insulate us against the cold – this is the principle of double-glazed windows!
When it’s cold, turn up the heat
What we believe. Is it freezing outside? No problem: you turn up the thermostat and you feel warm at home. You can even walk around in a T-shirt while it’s snowing outside!
Why this is a bad idea. In addition to the ecological impact, increasing the temperature of the radiators inevitably leads to a greater thermal difference with the outside – which can lead to thermal shocks that can have health consequences. In addition, bacteria and viruses proliferate more easily in a hot, humid and poorly ventilated environment – which can promote the flu, colds or even bronchitis.
- The board. The ideal temperature in a house is understood between 19°C and 21°C. And we don’t forget to ventilate the rooms for at least 10 minutes, three times a day, to renew the air and fight against the proliferation of viruses.
