As the weather grows colder, many people are stepping up their warming measures, as carelessness in such conditions can easily lead to colds. However, when it comes to staying warm during autumn and winter, many have fallen into common misconceptions. Let's explore some winter warming myths together.
Winter Warmth Myths
1. Keeping Windows and Doors Sealed for Extended Periods
Some seal windows and doors tightly to stay warm in cold weather. Yet even in extreme cold, indoor ventilation remains essential. Opening windows for 5-10 minutes won't significantly lower room temperature or cause colds. Conversely, sealed environments foster bacterial growth.
2. Sleeping with Your Head Covered for Warmth
Some prefer burying their heads under blankets while sleeping in winter. This practice, however, depletes oxygen levels inside the covers while trapping exhaled carbon dioxide and impurities. As a result, sleeping with your head covered only leaves you feeling groggy and physically drained.
3. Masks block cold air
In cold weather, some people cover every exposed part of their body for warmth, even wearing masks. However, the body's cold tolerance should be built through regular exercise. Long-term reliance on masks for warmth makes the body more susceptible to colds. Individuals with weaker immunity should prioritize scarves, gloves, and warm footwear for protection in cold weather.Of course, for those with respiratory conditions or during periods of poor air quality, wearing a mask outdoors is still recommended.
4. Clothing too tightly wrapped
Some believe loose clothing allows cold air to seep in, but in reality, tightly layered clothing reduces the air pockets between layers. This diminishes insulation by trapping less air, actually making you feel colder.Additionally, overly tight undergarments can restrict lymphatic and blood circulation. 5. Overheating the room while sleeping Excessive heat hinders sleep quality. A room temperature of 19°C (66°F) provides optimal conditions for restful sleep. For those sensitive to cold, layering lightweight blankets is preferable to using a single heavy duvet.
What to Eat for Warmth in Fall and Winter?
1. Prioritize High-Calorie Foods
Winter diets should emphasize calorie-dense foods like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to enhance the body's tolerance to cold temperatures. Particular attention should be given to protein-rich sources such as lean meats, poultry, eggs, fish, milk, and soy products.
2. Start your day with warm porridge
On cold mornings, a bowl of warm porridge makes an excellent breakfast. It not only boosts your body's ability to ward off the cold and prevent colds but also soothes a sore throat, effectively relieving discomfort for those experiencing throat inflammation or pain.
3. Consume iron- and calcium-rich foods
Cold sensitivity is closely linked to deficiencies in calcium and iron. Calcium levels directly influence the contractility and excitability of the heart muscle, blood vessels, and muscles. Iron deficiency in the blood reduces body heat production and lowers core temperature. Therefore, winter diets should emphasize calcium- and iron-rich foods to enhance the body's cold resistance.
Calcium-rich foods include milk, tofu, kelp, laver, shellfish, oysters, sardines, and shrimp. Iron-rich options encompass animal blood, egg yolks, pork liver, soybeans, sesame seeds, black fungus, and red dates.