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The Science of Shivering

Shivering plays a crucial role in boosting metabolism and burning calories, especially after exposure to cold. When the body is submerged in cold water, blood vessels constrict to preserve core temperature, leading to a phenomenon known as the afterdrop when exiting the water. This afterdrop can cause a drop in core temperature, which triggers shivering—a process that activates brown fat to generate heat and warm the body back up. Ending cold exposure with shivering can be beneficial for metabolic health.