Mar 9 β€’ 10:14 UTC πŸ‡ΆπŸ‡¦ Qatar Al Jazeera

Why does the fasting person feel cold? Physics reveals the secrets of lost heat

The article explores why fasting individuals may feel cold during Ramadan, illustrating how physical laws affect human body temperature regulation.

The sensation of cold experienced by fasting individuals, even in warm temperatures, can be explained through the principles of physics concerning heat and energy in the human body. During fasting hours in Ramadan, the human body strives to maintain a stable temperature, typically between 36.1 and 37.2 degrees Celsius. This balance is achieved through the heat produced by the body, which is influenced primarily by the food consumed, and the heat lost to environmental factors. The body generates temperature through the digestion of nutrients, converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into chemical energy, with part of it being converted to heat for warmth.

The loss of heat occurs through various physical mechanisms, such as radiation and convection. Radiation involves the emission of electromagnetic waves carrying heat away from the body, while convection refers to the transfer of heat from the skin to the surrounding air, especially when the air moves. Factors like humidity, physical activity, and clothing also play a significant role in how much heat is lost during fasting hours. The article references research published by the National Institutes of Health to elaborate on these mechanisms.

Understanding the physics behind the feeling of cold during fasting not only sheds light on human physiology but also on how one might better prepare for the physical demands of Ramadan. By recognizing the physiological responses to these conditions, individuals can adjust their behaviors to maintain comfort and health throughout the fasting period.

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