Cold Feet? One Mistake Makes You Cold Even with Wool Socks.
A Sintef researcher provides insight into why we get cold feet and offers practical advice for staying warm, even while wearing wool socks.
The article from Aftenposten discusses the issue of cold feet, especially during the winter months, and seeks advice from Øystein Wiggen, a senior researcher at Sintef. He explains how the body responds to cold temperatures by prioritizing heat retention, which results in reduced blood flow to extremities like toes, leading to feelings of coldness. Despite wearing high-quality wool socks, individuals can still experience cold feet due to common misconceptions about warmth and body heat regulation.
Wiggen emphasizes that understanding the underlying physiological processes is key to mitigating cold feet. He illustrates that when the heat produced by the body is surpassed by the heat lost, the body's defense mechanisms kick in, reducing blood circulation in parts of the body that are not vital for immediate survival. This process affects the extremities first, which is why toes often feel cold even with warm clothing.
The article provides practical tips and answers to common questions regarding keeping feet warm, addressing various factors including proper sock choices, insulation, and circulation. Wiggen’s insights highlight the importance of not just wearing wool socks but also taking into account overall body warmth and conditions that affect heat retention. This information can significantly help individuals who struggle with cold feet during the harsh winter months in Norway.