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Most people think of fall and winter as a time to sit by the fireplace, watch football, stay indoors, and relax. However, there are tens of thousands of people who work outdoors during the cold-weather months. Cold weather can be a real drag for outdoor workers. Freezing temperatures, bitter wind chill factors, even frostbite can take their toll on employees' health, motivation and productivity. Here are some tips to keep you warm and well all winter long.
The temperature of each body part is directly related to blood flow to that area. When the outside temperature drops, your body automatically directs blood vessels near the surface of the skin to constrict in order to redirect blood flow toward vital internal organs like the heart and brain. It's the body's way of keeping vital organs warm and working. Hands and feet, which have many blood vessels at the skin's surface, are particularly sensitive to this process and lose much warming blood as a result.
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Physical activity counters the cold by increasing flow of warming circulation. The good news is that a little effort can go a long way. For example, standing will increase your heat production by 20% over sitting. Swinging your arms windmill-style will increase circulation for icy hands. You should try to keep moving when you are in the cold.
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Eating is also an antidote to cold, since the digestion process produces heat. Choose something hot. Although the amount of actual heat ingested is small, hot foods and beverages give the nervous system a warmth signal that encourages blood flow to the extremities. Spicy foods will do this too. Eating foods high in iron such as red meats and green leafy vegetables can help keep you warm. The body needs iron to make the thyroid hormone which stimulates heat production.
Of course, the best way to deal with cold problems is to prevent them in the first place. The most sensible approach is to limit exposure to cold, especially if it's windy or humid. If you know you're going to be in cold conditions, dress for the conditions in layers of loose, dry clothes. The most effective mix is cotton or wool underneath, with something waterproof on top. Be sure to cover your hands, feet, face, and head. A hat is critical because you can lose up to 40 percent of your body heat if your head isn't covered. If your clothes do get wet, get dried or change immediately. You should also take regular breaks in warm areas-and go where it's warm any time you start to feel very cold or numb. Drink something warm, as long as it doesn't contain alcohol or caffeine.
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