There are rumours that exposure to cold temperatures burns more calories. I did some digging to see if this rumour is in fact true. Based on several studies and reports, the general consensus is that exposure to cold weather could cause additional calories to be burned, but is quite modest in most situations. Significant caloric burn only occurs when an individual’s internal/core temperature drops significantly (which is dangerous – more on that below).

To elaborate, when cold, your body will initiate non-shivering heat production to increase and stabilize your temperature. According to an interview between Livestrong and Zac Schlader, an associate professor in the School of Public Health,  this level of heat production will likely only burn an additional 50-100 calories per day. If severely cold, however, to the point of shivering, Schlader says an extra 100 calories per 15 minutes could be burned. 

In other words, the more your body’s temperature decreases, the more calories you burn. That being said, know that shivering is a symptom of mild hypothermia – which is something you certainly want to prevent. 

(*Mild hypothermia is very serious; actions should be taken to prevent the development of full hypothermia. Stopping physical activity, protecting the individual from the elements with additional clothing and shelter, and having them consume emergency calories and water would be advised in this scenario)

Overall, the rumour that exposure to cold temperatures burns more calories is broadly true – but the need to include additional calories in your diet is debatable. As long as your caloric intake is sufficient relative to your needs and activity, and internal temperature decrease is prevented, you’re good to go.