Cold: Human Variation & Race
One of the most challenging environmental stresses humans have faced is cold . Cold environments negatively impact human survival by disrupting homeostasis —the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal state. In freezing temperatures, our bodies lose heat faster than we can generate it, which can lead to hypothermia, slowed organ function, and even death if uncorrected. Humans have developed several adaptations to survive cold conditions: 1. Short-Term Adaptation – Shivering This is the body’s immediate response to cold exposure. Muscles contract rapidly to generate heat in a process known as shivering thermogenesis . It’s uncomfortable but crucial for raising core temperature quickly. 2. Facultative Adaptation – Vasoconstriction Blood vessels narrow to reduce heat loss by limiting blood flow to the skin. While this helps conserve body heat, it also increases the risk of frostbite in fingers and toes. 3 . Developmental Adaptation – Body Proportion...