As winter illnesses like the flu, RSV, pneumonia, and COVID-19 become more widespread, many people turn to common beliefs about staying warm and fighting off sickness. However, not all of these beliefs are backed by science. Dr. Sonia Dar, a primary care physician in Greece, clears up some of the most persistent myths about winter health.
Myth 1: You get sick from being outside in the cold
Despite what many believe, simply being out in the cold doesn’t cause illness. “It’s not true that you get the common cold from going out in the cold,” Dr. Dar said.
Winter illnesses increase because people spend more time indoors in close contact with others, making it easier for germs to spread. Viruses, not cold air, are what make people sick.
Myth 2: You lose most of your body heat through your head
While it’s true that any exposed skin loses heat, the head is not the only vulnerable area. “If you go outside bundled up in a jacket, without a hat but you’re wearing shorts, you will lose more heat from your legs that are exposed than from your head,” Dr. Dar explained.
To stay warm in freezing temperatures, cover all exposed body parts—not just your head.
Myth 3: Drinking alcohol keeps you warm
Alcohol may make you feel warm, but it actually lowers your body temperature. “When you drink alcohol, it makes the arteries that are closer to the surface of your skin dilate. This makes more heat go towards the surface of the skin, so you initially get the sensation of feeling warm,” Dr. Dar said.
However, this process pulls heat away from your core, increasing the risk of hypothermia. The best way to stay warm is to layer up and stay dry.
Myth 4: Vitamin C cures a cold faster
Vitamin C is often praised for its immune-boosting properties, but it won’t shorten the duration of a cold. “Starting vitamin C at the initiation of cold symptoms may help boost your immune system a little, but it will not change the outcome,” Dr. Dar noted.
While vitamin C won’t cure a cold, it can still support overall immune health. If taking it makes you feel better, there’s no harm in continuing to do so.
The bottom line
When it comes to winter health, separating fact from fiction is key to staying well. While bundling up, avoiding alcohol for warmth, and maintaining a strong immune system are all good practices, the best way to prevent illness is through proper hygiene, vaccinations, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick.
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