Q Alcohol seems to warm me up. Does it actually help?
A Alcohol widens the blood vessels near the skin so you feel briefly warmer, while the body actually loses more heat. Not feeling the cold while intoxicated also raises the risk of hypothermia. Smoking narrows the peripheral vessels and clearly worsens cold hands and feet.
Detailed Answer
Colder hands and feet and a heavy body the day after drinking come from the same mechanism. Caffeine, too, can constrict peripheral vessels in some people and leave the extremities colder. Drinking outdoors in winter calls for particular care.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Stopping smoking is the first thing we recommend to patients who come for cold sensitivity. Many notice the sensation in their fingertips change from cutting back alone. If quitting alcohol is difficult, start by reducing the amount and frequency.
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