Do men and women differ in their tolerance to a cold?
True or False?
Some researchers speculate that men, generally speaking, should have a higher tolerance, resulting from a greater ratio of body mass to surface area, more heat-generating muscle and a higher metabolism. But the science is not so clear-cut.
One study looked at 219 people of all ages and found that the female subjects averaged higher core temperatures but colder hand temperatures. That could indicate a better ability to conserve body heat and protect vital organs. But less blood flow to the extremities would also mean a greater feeling of cold.
Then again, studies in which men and women are immersed in cold water have found that the body’s reaction depends primarily on size and body fat. Ultimately, so many other variables also play a role in core and peripheral temperatures — diet, activity levels, hot flashes in menopause, smoking and even sleep — that there appears to be no clear answer. Ultimately, so many other variables also play a role in core and peripheral temperatures
The verdict
The research is unclear on whether gender influences cold tolerance and perception.
