Why women get cold faster – and how cold therapy can help
It is a well-known phenomenon: women feel cold more often and more intensely than men. Whether in the office, where the air conditioning often causes arguments, or outside in colder weather - many women feel the cold more intensely. But what is behind this different perception of temperature? Science is shedding light on exciting biological, evolutionary and new research approaches that explain these differences.
Biological differences in temperature regulation
The differences in temperature perception between women and men can be explained in large part by their different body compositions. Women, on average, have more subcutaneous fat, which is stored just beneath the skin. Although fat can act as an insulator, this distribution causes women to lose heat more quickly rather than retain it. Men, on the other hand, have more visceral fat, which lies deeper in the body and surrounds the organs, providing more effective insulation.
Another crucial factor is muscle mass. Men have more muscles, which continuously produce heat through movement. This heat production helps maintain the body's core temperature even in colder temperatures. Women, who have less muscle mass, produce correspondingly less heat, which causes them to cool down more quickly.
Metabolism also plays a role. Women have a lower basal metabolic rate than men, which means that their bodies produce less energy and therefore less heat when resting. In addition, the hormone estrogen influences blood circulation and increases sensitivity to cold, as it constricts the blood vessels and thus less heat reaches the extremities. This means that women's hands and feet get cold particularly quickly.
Evolutionary and Behavioral Factors
Evolutionary theories offer further explanations. Women may have evolved a greater ability to retain heat to protect their reproductive capacity. However, in the modern world, this ability may make women more sensitive to cold.
In addition, behaviors and cultural norms reinforce this effect. Women often wear tighter clothing that is less insulating. Social expectations that push women to be "appropriately" dressed also influence their perception of cold, as this clothing is often not designed for warmth.
Latest research findings
A recent study provides new insight into why women feel cold more often than men. The researchers found that in colder temperatures, women begin producing extra heat more quickly to maintain their body temperature. This difference is caused by the higher body fat in women, which acts as an insulator but at the same time reduces the ability to produce heat internally. In cold environments, this means that women have to expend more energy to stay warm, which explains why they feel cold more quickly.
These findings are particularly relevant for women who use cold therapies such as ice baths or who enjoy being in cold environments. Since women are more sensitive to cold, it is important to adapt cold exposures to their individual needs. For example, it might be useful for women to choose shorter or less intense cold baths or to warm up before the bath to make the experience more pleasant and effective.
In addition, the study shows that the thermal responses of women and men are determined not only by biological differences, but also by physical characteristics such as body size and composition. This underlines the need to consider personalized approaches when applying cold therapies. Women who consciously prepare for cold can increase their resilience and make better use of the positive effects of cold. Whether through appropriate clothing, slowly getting used to cold water or specifically regulating the duration of exposure - the goal is to take individual needs into account and thus promote well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, the differences in the perception of cold between women and men are a combination of biological, evolutionary and behavioral factors. Recent research highlights that women are more sensitive to cold due to their body composition and hormonal influences. This knowledge is particularly valuable for those who use cold therapies, as it allows them to be individually tailored and thus maximize their effectiveness. By consciously preparing and personalizing cold exposure, both men and women can make the most of the health benefits and increase their well-being.
Here are the articles used in the essay:
- National Geographic : "Why Women Feel Colder Than Men: The Science Behind Temperature Sensitivity"
- ScienceDirect : "Gender Differences in Thermal Perception: Biological and Evolutionary Explanations"
- Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) : "Sex-Based Differences in Thermoregulation"