SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/alcohol-does-not-warm-you

Does a drink of alcohol help warm you up in the cold?

No. It makes you lose body heat.

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The Just Right card

Too littleSkip the warm drink entirely
Too muchDrink alcohol to stay toasty
Just rightA warm, non-alcoholic drink and dry layers

Huh, didn't know that: The Weather Service adds that alcohol reduces shivering, and shivering is how your body keeps itself warm.

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What do you call a polar bear in the desert? Lost.
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References

Answer: No, it makes you lose body heat. Health agencies say alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat. Warm drinks help, but they should be non-alcoholic.

  1. CDC: Safety Guidelines During and After a Winter Storm www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/safety/stay-safe-during-after-a-winter-storm-safety.html
    cause your body to lose heat faster
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. CDC: Preventing Hypothermia www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
    Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but do not give alcoholic drinks.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  3. NWS: Cold Weather Safety, During www.weather.gov/safety/cold-during
    Alcohol reduces shivering, which helps keep you warm.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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