Posted by Jamie on May 12, 2005

Q: Why do shivering and goose bumps keep our bodies warm?

A: Jamie:

Continue reading through the list of questions and answers on the "Goosebumps" page. You'll find several answers that fit your question, but here's the best:

{As the poster points out, Goosebumps are our way of raising or fluffing the hair on our bodies which in turn traps air and improves insulation. Since humans have so little hair, this is not very helpful. But organisms often have backup systems they can use if necessary, and that is what happens when we shiver.

If we are unable to bring our body temperature into a safe range using the "Goosebumps" technique, our bodies can go to "plan B" and shiver. As our muscles quiver, they generate heat. If our heat loss isn't too great, this shivering can bring our body back into a safe temperature range. Incidentally, if you've ever really shivered from the cold you know it isn't something you do consciously - it is uncontrollable.}

I hope this helps!

Jim Berry ( May 13, 2005)