What factors can affect body temperature?

The correct answer identifies several comprehensive factors that can influence body temperature. Age plays a significant role, as infants and the elderly typically experience greater fluctuations in temperature compared to healthy adolescents and adults. Exercise can elevate body temperature due to increased metabolic activity and muscle use, while hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle or due to endocrine conditions can also lead to variations in temperature. Circadian rhythms, which are the body's natural sleep-wake cycles, significantly affect body temperature, with temperatures typically being lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening. Stress can induce physiological changes that affect temperature regulation, and environmental factors, such as ambient temperature and humidity, can alter the body's heat production and heat loss mechanisms, thus impacting overall body temperature.

This multifaceted perspective encapsulates the various physiological and environmental influences on body temperature regulation, making it a comprehensive and accurate choice.