A nutritionist on why 'beer jackets' aren't actually a real thing
Excuse us for one moment while we grieve the end of summer – but then perk up slightly upon remembering that pumpkin everything will soon be incoming. This change of season also means the nights will be getting colder, and even though, due to lockdown restrictions, we're unlikely to be having a typical 'night out' as it were, the odd trip to the pub may still be on the cards.
Given that many people feel more comfortable sitting outside, rather than in an enclosed space due to the coronavirus pandemic, some of us might be relying on the age old classic of a 'beer jacket' (e.g. feeling warmer after drinking something alcoholic) when it starts to get nippy too. But, says nutritionist Jade Taylor of Kitchen Home, that whole thing of battling the cold by downing a wine? A total myth. Yeah, we were shocked too.
"I hear it a lot, whether it be overheard or from friends, that if they're cold on an evening out then they will have a harmless drink to ‘warm them up’," she explains. "However, contrary to popular belief, this is actually counterproductive." Taylor notes that the body has to work hard to metabolise the alcohol you're taking on board, which creates a feeling of warmth, but in reality the body's temperature is dropping.
This, she continues on to say, can actually be dangerous on rare occasions too. "To metabolise the alcohol consumed, the liver gives off heat. This can create the feeling of warmth, but the body’s core temperature is lowering. There is a turn in blood supply in the body which generates a feeling of warmth, furthering the risk of a person believing they are warm whilst their temperature is dropping. Worst case scenario, hyperthermia can ensue." Whilst this isn't a common occurrence (meaning: don't panic!), it's still good to keep in mind next time you're debating taking a coat out with you.
As for alcohol consumption in general, feeling warmer after drinking it – or rather having a flushed face – could also possibly indicate that your body may not be able to digest it all that well, and you might be intolerant to some types of booze.
And lastly, if you're tempted to try Sober October this year, then may we please suggest having a wee browse of these non-alcoholic alternatives?
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