How does the body maintain homeostasis in a very cold environment?

Answer 1

The body will respond to a very cold environment in a number of ways providing it is functioning properly. Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus in the brain which contains the equivalent of your thermostat for body temperature. When the body temp drops, this mechanism will be automatically triggered to raise the body temperature, similar to how a home heating system with a thermostat would work. If the temperature continues to drop, then shivering may occur since a lot of heat is generated through muscle activity. Also the hairs on the arms and legs may stand up, a left over primal response, this is done by the erectae pilae muscles. If things continue to drop, then body heat will automatically be concentrated in the essential central areas, with peripheral parts like fingers and toes becoming not so important. This will continue until hopefully a viable temperature is reached. At this point, all of these mechanisms would be shut down, much like the heating system in the home. It is known as a negative feedback system - aiming to return to the desired temperature. This is the function of homeostasis.

Answer 2

The body attempts to regain homestasis through shivering and blood vessel contraction.