Why some people handle the heat better than others
PARIS : Human beings are 'homeothermic' animals, meaning that they keep their core temperature relatively constant despite any changes in the surrounding conditions.
But, at the same time, their bodies naturally produce heat, which also makes them 'endothermic' creatures, like other mammals.
When their bodies are exposed to intense heat, they thermoregulate by producing sweat. It is the evaporation of this sweat through the pores of the skin that evacuates the heat, thus lowering the body's temperature.
Biological inequalities
But this internal climate-control system doesn't work in the same way for everyone. Babies and older people sweat less than adults, which explains why they are so sensitive to ambient heat.
Babies and older people are also more likely to suffer from dehydration, as they don't tend to feel as thirsty. Yet the body needs a sufficient supply of water to produce sweat and adjust its core temperature.
In addition to age, an individual's ability to withstand high temperatures depends on their biological sex. The assumption that women are more sensitive to heat than men is confirmed by numerous scientific studies.
Research from the Netherlands, published in 2021 in the journal International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, reports that deaths during heatwaves are higher among women than men.
These differences are due to a number of possible causes, including differences in height, weight, perspiration, cardiovascular strain and hormones.
However, it would be wrong to say that women's greater discomfort in summer is solely linked to biology. It also stems from social factors, with the Dutch researchers explaining that women are less likely than men to be well-equipped to cope with the heat due to income inequalities.
Changing behaviour to better tolerate heat
In addition to the physical differences between individuals, heat tolerance is closely linked to lifestyle.
When temperatures rise, many people turn on the air conditioning. And this may be a good idea in the heat of the moment, but it can be less so in the longer term.
The stronger the air conditioning, the greater the difference with the outside temperature. This puts their bodies to the test when they leave the air-conditioned space.
Too severe a change in temperature (over 10°C) can lead to thermal shock, and in the worst case, loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest. So it's best to use air conditioners sparingly.
Diet also has an impact on one's tolerance to high temperatures. Fatty or high-protein foods contain compounds that are relatively difficult to digest.
One's body has to expend more energy to process them, and therefore generate more heat. That's why people often sweat profusely after eating sausages, burgers and other grilled meats at a barbecue.
When the mercury rises, opt for light meals with vegetables, lean meats or fish. Similarly, it's important to limit alcohol consumption.
Generally speaking, it's perfectly possible to change your habits to acclimatise better to the heat. And that's good news as the effects of global warming become more keenly felt.
Over the period of February 2023 to January 2024, the global surface air temperature was 1.52°C higher compared to pre-industrial levels of 1850-1900, according to the EU's Copernicus monitoring programme.
In this context, humans are going to have to be adaptable if they're to learn to live in a world where their tolerance to heat will be increasingly challenged.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Free Malaysia Today
21 hours ago
- Free Malaysia Today
How to keep your dog cool and comfy during a heatwave
Some dogs need extra care and attention during a heatwave. (Envato Elements pic) PARIS : In hot weather, dog owners need to be extra vigilant to ensure the well-being of their four-legged friends. Unlike humans, dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature and are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke. Fortunately, a few simple steps can help keep them cool and comfortable in a heatwave. Adjust walking times Forget taking walks in the blazing sun! During periods of extreme heat, you should completely rethink your dog's walking schedule. Opt for early morning walks before 8am or late evening walks after 8pm, when temperatures are more moderate. Always seek out shaded areas and avoid asphalt at all costs. It traps heat and can cause painful burns to your pet's paws. Keep your dog hydrated Cool, fresh water must be available to your pet at all times. However, be careful not to serve it ice-cold, as this could cause thermal shock. You should change the water in their bowl several times a day, especially if it is exposed to the sun. Best to place several water bowls around your home or garden to encourage your dog to drink regularly. To keep the water cool for longer, add a few ice cubes to the bowl – many dogs love to lick them! You can also moisten their kibble with a little lukewarm water. This simple trick provides additional hydration at mealtimes, especially as dry food can increase thirst. Finally, homemade frozen treats (chicken broth frozen with a few pieces of kibble) are a great way to make hydration more fun. Resist the temptation to shave Contrary to popular belief, shaving your dog in hot weather is a mistake. Their coat provides natural protection from the sun's rays and helps regulate their body temperature. Instead, brush them regularly to aerate their coat and remove any dead undercoat, thereby optimizing their natural heat regulation. Keep the interior of your home cool, particularly during a heatwave, for your furry buddy's comfort. (Envato Elements pic) Keep an eye on vulnerable animals Some dogs require special attention during heat waves. Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese) are most at risk, as their flat snouts make breathing difficult and expose them to heatstroke. Puppies and older dogs, which are less able to regulate their body temperature, should also be monitored closely in hot weather. Keep your home interior cool Creating a cool environment at home is essential. Close shutters and curtains during the hottest hours of the day, place damp cloths in front of fans, and create as many shaded areas as possible, both indoors and outdoors. Invest in a cooling mat for your dog's benefit, or set up a small pool in your garden where your pet can soak their paws. These simple tricks can significantly improve your companion's comfort. Never leave your dog alone in a car Even for a few minutes and even with the windows open, never leave your dog alone in a car. The temperature can rise to 50°C in less than 10 minutes, turning the interior into a real oven. This negligence can have dramatic, even fatal consequences. Know what to do in case of heatstroke If, despite all your precautions, your dog shows signs of heatstroke (excessive panting, drooling, unsteady gait), you should act immediately. The absolute priority is to lower their body temperature. 'There's no point rushing to the vet until the dog has cooled down,' explained Thierry Bedossa, veterinarian, president of the AVA animal shelter, and Rover ambassador. He said gently hosing, splashing or pouring cool (but not ice-cold) water over the dog for two to three minutes, focusing on the head, which is especially vulnerable. 'This action can literally save their life,' the expert said. Once the animal has cooled down, get them checked by a veterinarian without delay. By following these recommendations, you can provide your faithful companion with optimal conditions to get them through a heatwave with minimal discomfort. Taking care of pets in hot weather not only ensures their health and well-being, but also gives us peace of mind as responsible owners.
Free Malaysia Today
21 hours ago
- Free Malaysia Today
Why some people handle the heat better than others
Some people tolerate heat less well than others, whether it's a dry or humid kind. (Envato Elements pic) PARIS : Human beings are 'homeothermic' animals, meaning that they keep their core temperature relatively constant despite any changes in the surrounding conditions. But, at the same time, their bodies naturally produce heat, which also makes them 'endothermic' creatures, like other mammals. When their bodies are exposed to intense heat, they thermoregulate by producing sweat. It is the evaporation of this sweat through the pores of the skin that evacuates the heat, thus lowering the body's temperature. Biological inequalities But this internal climate-control system doesn't work in the same way for everyone. Babies and older people sweat less than adults, which explains why they are so sensitive to ambient heat. Babies and older people are also more likely to suffer from dehydration, as they don't tend to feel as thirsty. Yet the body needs a sufficient supply of water to produce sweat and adjust its core temperature. In addition to age, an individual's ability to withstand high temperatures depends on their biological sex. The assumption that women are more sensitive to heat than men is confirmed by numerous scientific studies. Research from the Netherlands, published in 2021 in the journal International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, reports that deaths during heatwaves are higher among women than men. These differences are due to a number of possible causes, including differences in height, weight, perspiration, cardiovascular strain and hormones. However, it would be wrong to say that women's greater discomfort in summer is solely linked to biology. It also stems from social factors, with the Dutch researchers explaining that women are less likely than men to be well-equipped to cope with the heat due to income inequalities. Changing behaviour to better tolerate heat In addition to the physical differences between individuals, heat tolerance is closely linked to lifestyle. When temperatures rise, many people turn on the air conditioning. And this may be a good idea in the heat of the moment, but it can be less so in the longer term. The stronger the air conditioning, the greater the difference with the outside temperature. This puts their bodies to the test when they leave the air-conditioned space. Too severe a change in temperature (over 10°C) can lead to thermal shock, and in the worst case, loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest. So it's best to use air conditioners sparingly. Diet also has an impact on one's tolerance to high temperatures. Fatty or high-protein foods contain compounds that are relatively difficult to digest. One's body has to expend more energy to process them, and therefore generate more heat. That's why people often sweat profusely after eating sausages, burgers and other grilled meats at a barbecue. When the mercury rises, opt for light meals with vegetables, lean meats or fish. Similarly, it's important to limit alcohol consumption. Generally speaking, it's perfectly possible to change your habits to acclimatise better to the heat. And that's good news as the effects of global warming become more keenly felt. Over the period of February 2023 to January 2024, the global surface air temperature was 1.52°C higher compared to pre-industrial levels of 1850-1900, according to the EU's Copernicus monitoring programme. In this context, humans are going to have to be adaptable if they're to learn to live in a world where their tolerance to heat will be increasingly challenged.
Free Malaysia Today
21 hours ago
- Free Malaysia Today
Why midlife is a great time to lose weight
Adults who lose weight in their 40s reduce their risk of chronic disease by 48%. (Envato Elements pic) PARIS : Is losing weight still worthwhile after the age of 40? A large Finnish study published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open dispels any doubts. It claims that losing weight in your forties drastically reduces the risk of chronic diseases and prolongs life, even without extreme dieting. To reach these conclusions, researchers at the University of Helsinki compiled data from three major studies conducted among British and Finnish populations. In total, more than 23,000 people were followed for 22 to 35 years, an exceptionally long period that allows for the observation of real health impacts. It appears that adults who lost weight in their 40s reduced their risk of chronic disease by 48% and their risk of death by 19%. These benefits go far beyond the prevention of diabetes, which has already been established by other research. Losing weight at this age also reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, asthma, and lung disease. These protective effects persist even when researchers exclude diabetes from their calculations. Importantly, this study was conducted at a time when bariatric surgery and weight-loss drugs were relatively rare. Participants therefore achieved these results solely through diet and exercise, methods that are accessible to everyone. 'The benefits of lifestyle-based weight management are widely discussed even though studies have found it surprisingly difficult to demonstrate health benefits beyond the prevention of diabetes,' said study co-author, professor Timo Strandberg, quoted in a news release. However, maintaining weight loss over the long term remains a major challenge, as the figures from this study illustrate. Indeed, only 96 British participants and 188 Finnish participants managed to lose weight and keep it off, compared to more than 1,200 who remained overweight throughout the study period. This study also highlights a little-known aspect of weight loss. Contrary to popular belief, the most significant benefits are neither immediate nor spectacular. The most significant effects can take decades to become apparent, which explains why such a long follow-up period was needed to identify them. The message is therefore clear for anyone who's overweight in their forties: while maintaining a healthy weight throughout life remains the ideal, it's never too late to start taking action. In fact, even modest but sustainable weight loss can pay big dividends in the long run and add precious years to your life.
