Have you been feeling cold all the time? If you’re constantly shivering, even when the temperature is normal, it can be worrying and uncomfortable.

This may be a sign of an underlying health condition or a lifestyle habit that needs to be addressed. Here are some of the most common reasons why you may be feeling cold all the time.

Low Body Fat

If you have low body fat or a lean body type, you may find that you feel cold more often than your peers. Body fat can act as an insulator to keep you warm, and with less of it, you may not be able to regulate your body temperature as well.

If you’ve recently lost a considerable amount of weight, you may also be feeling colder than usual for this reason.

Anemia

Anemia occurs when your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and feeling cold.

When your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells, your organs don’t get enough oxygen, which can cause you to feel chilly all the time.

Thyroid issues

If you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), you may be feeling cold all the time. Your thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism.

When your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, your metabolism slows down, and you may feel chilly all the time. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

Circulation problems

Your body’s circulation plays a crucial role in regulating your body temperature. Poor circulation can cause you to feel cold all the time.

Circulation problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes and Raynaud’s disease, a condition that affects the blood vessels in your fingers and toes.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Your body needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to function correctly. If you’re not getting enough of certain nutrients, you may be feeling cold all the time.

Two vitamins that are particularly important for regulating body temperature are vitamin B12 and vitamin D. Vitamin B12 helps your body produce red blood cells, and vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Dehydration

When you’re dehydrated, your body has a harder time regulating its temperature. If you’re not drinking enough water throughout the day, you may be feeling cold all the time.

Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially during exercise or hot weather.

Sleep Deprivation

If you’re not getting enough sleep, you may be feeling cold all the time. Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature.

If you’re not getting enough rest, your body may not be able to regulate its temperature as well, leading to feelings of coldness.

Stress

Stress can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including feeling cold all the time. When you’re stressed, your body produces the hormone cortisol, which can affect your body temperature.

If you’re under a lot of stress, you may find that you’re feeling chilly more often than usual.

Inactivity

If you’re not getting enough exercise, you may be feeling cold all the time. Physical activity helps regulate your body temperature. Regular exercise can also improve your circulation, helping your body stay warm in cold conditions.

An Underlying Medical Condition

Feeling cold all the time can be a symptom of a variety of health conditions. If you’re feeling cold and experiencing other symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or weight loss, it’s essential to see a doctor.

Some conditions that may cause you to feel cold all the time include anemia, hypothyroidism, and Raynaud’s disease.

Conclusion

Feeling cold all the time can be uncomfortable and frustrating. If you’re experiencing this symptom, it’s essential to determine the underlying cause.

Whether it’s a lifestyle factor such as dehydration or stress or a medical condition such as anemia or hypothyroidism, there are steps you can take to feel warmer. Speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing persistent feelings of coldness.