With the onset of winter, most people choose warmth - blankets, heaters, hot tea. However, scientists say: a slight cold can be good for health, as it activates brown fat - a special fatty tissue that burns calories and produces heat.
Brown fat differs from white fat in that it contains many mitochondria, the body's small "power plants." A special protein called thermogenin causes it to convert calories into heat rather than into energy for muscles. In children, brown fat helps maintain body temperature, and in adults it is stored, albeit in smaller quantities.
Studies show that lean people have more active brown fat, and those with more of it are less likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Brown fat helps the body use glucose and fats more efficiently, improves insulin sensitivity, and raises levels of “good” cholesterol.
The easiest way to activate brown fat is cold. Brief immersion in ice water, cold showers, or staying in cool rooms stimulate heat production and improve metabolism. Even a moderately cool room or cold baths 2–3 times a week can increase brown fat activity and improve metabolic health.
In addition to cold, brown fat is activated by caffeine and spicy food, but large doses are required for a significant effect. In any case, even a small stimulation of brown fat helps the body process energy more efficiently and maintain overall health, although it is difficult to directly lose weight with its help due to the small volumes of this tissue in adults.
