It’s common to feel a bit colder during the winter or after being in air-conditioned spaces for an extended period.
But if you frequently feel cold—even on warm days—or find yourself layering up while others are comfortable, or if your hands and feet are always freezing, there could be an underlying issue.
Experts, including Sami Karjalainen from Finland’s VTT Technial Research Centre, explain that women tend to be more sensitive to changes in temperature than men. This is partly because women typically generate less body heat, with their body temperatures ranging from 3 to 10 percent lower than men’s. This difference stems from the fact that men usually have more calorie-burning muscle mass, which produces more heat.
While biology offers one explanation, there are many other potential reasons why someone might constantly feel cold, ranging from health conditions to lifestyle habits such as sleep, diet, and exercise.
10 Reasons You Might Always Feel Cold
1. Poor Blood Circulation
When circulation is poor, red blood cell levels can be low. Since these cells transport oxygen, your body prioritizes sending oxygen to vital organs like the brain, often leaving the hands and feet cold.
2. Iron Deficiency
Iron supports the flow of oxygen via red blood cells. A shortage can result in chronic coldness and may also be linked to thyroid issues.
3. Thyroid Disorders
According to the American Thyroid Association, 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop a thyroid condition, and many are unaware of it. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) slows down metabolism, reducing the body’s ability to generate heat.