🍽️ Below normal temperature {Cold exposure}

Thermoregulation: Cold exposure triggers the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms to maintain core body temperature within a narrow range. Short-term exposure to cold temperatures can stimulate shivering and vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) to conserve heat, while prolonged exposure may lead to hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a dangerously low core body temperature.

Immune Function: Some research suggests that moderate cold exposure may have beneficial effects on immune function by stimulating the production and activation of immune cells. Cold exposure has been associated with increased levels of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in defending the body against infections. However, excessive or prolonged cold exposure may suppress immune function and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections and other illnesses.

Cardiovascular Health: Cold exposure can affect cardiovascular function by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and peripheral vasoconstriction in response to cold stress. For individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension or coronary artery disease, cold exposure may exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.

Respiratory Health: Cold air can irritate the respiratory tract and exacerbate symptoms in individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions. Cold-induced bronchoconstriction, also known as exercise-induced asthma, is a common phenomenon triggered by breathing cold air during physical activity. Cold exposure may also increase the risk of respiratory infections such as the common cold and influenza.

Musculoskeletal Health: Cold exposure can affect musculoskeletal health by causing vasoconstriction and decreased blood flow to muscles and joints, which may increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries such as strains, sprains, and fractures. Cold temperatures can also exacerbate symptoms in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.

Metabolic Effects: Cold exposure can stimulate thermogenesis, the process by which the body generates heat to maintain core body temperature. Cold-induced thermogenesis involves the activation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) or "brown fat," which burns calories to produce heat. Some research suggests that cold exposure may have metabolic benefits, such as increasing energy expenditure and promoting weight loss. However, the metabolic effects of cold exposure may vary depending on individual factors such as age, body composition, and metabolic rate.

Skin Health: Cold exposure can have both positive and negative effects on skin health. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause skin damage such as frostbite, chilblains, and cold urticaria (hives). However, short-term exposure to cold temperatures may have therapeutic effects on certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and itching, by reducing inflammation and itching sensations.