Baby, It's Cold Outside

Myth #6: Women and men feel cold at the same temperature.
You've probably already noticed plenty of differences between the sexes; this is just another one of those things that set us apart. The set point temperature, the point at which the body begins to conserve heat, varies by about three degrees between males and females. Women will complain about the cold quicker than men. At about 70 degrees women begin to feel chilled, particularly their hands and feet. Men tough it out to somewhere around 67 or 68 degrees.

Myth #7: You do not have to drink fluids in cold weather.
Here's a clue: if you can see your breath you're losing moisture from your body. Staying hydrated in cold weather is equally as important as it is in warm weather, particularly if you will be active outside, e.g., exercising. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends drinking water before you go out, and bringing some along during your period of activity. Remember, water not alcohol.

Myth #8: Breathing in cold air will damage your lungs.
I used to hear this one from a few friends as an excuse not to run outdoors in the winter. The fact is the ACSM says cold air does not damage the lungs. Even very cold air is warmed to body temperature by the time it hits the lungs. They warn, however, that cold air can trigger an attack for people with asthma.

Myth #9: Chicken soup will cure the common cold.
According to Phyllis Brown, CRNP, warm chicken soup can make a sore throat feel better but it lacks any special medicinal healing power to actually cure the cold. While your mother and grandmother use it as a first resort and truly believe it will cure you, their belief is mostly folklore rather than fact. However, it sure is nice to have that hot bowl of chicken soup served to you when you're feeling a little under the weather.

Myth #10: Starve a cold; feed a fever.
Quoting Phyllis Brown once again, "It is extremely important to stay well hydrated when you're sick. Starving a cold by not drinking plenty of water and juice could do even more damage. Likewise, overeating when you have a fever in not ideal either. It is important to eat, but you should not overindulge. Eat enough to satisfy your appetite and make sure to drink plenty of fluids."

Cold weather is part of life; don't allow it to hinder your activities. Man has survived and thrived in cold temperatures for ages. So until that over-hyped global warming phenomenon occurs, throw on some warm clothing and go out and have some fun.

Stay safe, brothers and sisters!