Wearing a Single T-shirt in winter? Here Is Why You Don’t Feel Cold

We have all seen that one person: the temperature is falling, everyone is bundled up in heavy clothes, yet they are walking around comfortably in just a single T-shirt. For most of us, even the thought of it brings on the shivers. You might wonder if they are just "toughing it out" or if their body genuinely works differently.

The truth is, cold tolerance isn't just about willpower. It is a complex mix of biology, genetics, and how your brain processes the environment. While it looks like a "superpower" to those of us reaching for a third sweater, there are specific medical reasons why some people feel the heat while others feel the freeze.

The Science of Internal Heat 

To understand this phenomenon, we spoke with Dr Zubair Sarkar, Senior Consultant - Neurology at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kanpur. He explains that the way we feel temperature isn't just about the weather; it’s about our internal "thermostat." According to Dr. Sarkar, not feeling cold despite light clothing usually happens due to variations in how the body regulates temperature. "The brain, particularly the hypothalamus, controls the perception of heat," he explains.

In some individuals, specific biological "boosters" help them stay warm:

• Higher Basal Metabolism: A faster engine burns more fuel and creates more heat.
• Brown Fat Activity: Unlike regular white fat, brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a heat-generating organ that burns calories specifically to keep you warm.
• Neurological Factors: The cold receptors in the skin may be less sensitive, or the nerve signals transmitting the "cold" message to the brain might be slower or altered.
• Genetics and Hormones: Factors like the ACTN3 gene or stress hormones like adrenaline can make one person feel much warmer than another in the same room.

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Is It Something To Worry About?

Dr. Sarkar notes that while this is often perfectly normal, you should pay attention to sudden changes. "If the reduction in cold sensitivity is persistent or accompanied by symptoms like numbness, tingling, fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or excessive sweating, it should not be ignored," he warns.

Conditions like thyroid imbalances or peripheral neuropathy can impact how you perceive temperature. A sudden shift from being "always cold" to "never cold" might signal an underlying metabolic or neurological issue rather than just a high tolerance.

What Should You Do If You Notice a Change?

If you find yourself constantly in a T-shirt while others are freezing, or if you notice your temperature sensitivity has shifted, here is what Dr. Sarkar recommends:

• Observe Associated Symptoms: Watch for changes in sleep patterns, sweating, or sensory feelings (like "pins and needles").
• Dress for the Reality, Not the Sensation: Even if you don't feel cold, extreme exposure can still stress your heart and internal organs. Maintain appropriate layers to protect your core.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can actually trick your body’s regulation system.
• Consult a Professional: If symptoms persist, see a physician for a metabolic screening or a neurologist if you notice sensory changes. Early evaluation can catch reversible causes like vitamin deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.

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Conclusion

At the end of the day, our bodies are incredibly unique in how they handle the environment. Whether it's your genetics, a high-revving metabolism, or active brown fat keeping you warm in that T-shirt, it is fascinating to see how the human "thermostat" adapts. However, remember that feeling warm doesn't always mean your body isn't under stress from the cold. By listening to your body and staying aware of any sudden changes, you can enjoy your high cold tolerance safely while keeping your health in check.