What is one effect of colder temperatures on infants?

One significant effect of colder temperatures on infants is an increased metabolic rate. When infants are exposed to cooler environments, their bodies naturally respond by increasing metabolism to generate additional heat and maintain their core body temperature. This thermogenic response is essential for infants, as they have a larger surface area to volume ratio compared to adults, making them more susceptible to heat loss.

In this context, the body's adaptive mechanism ensures that despite the cold external environment, the internal temperature remains stable, which is crucial for proper physiological functioning. The increased metabolic activity facilitates energy production through processes like non-shivering thermogenesis, primarily using brown adipose tissue. This process is particularly vital for infants as it helps sustain their energy needs during colder temperatures, enabling them to thrive and grow effectively.