Which vitamins can help prevent constant feelings of coldness?

We all know someone who is perpetually cold or always hot. You might be the type who wears shorts even in winter or always carries a sweater, even in summer. Despite these differences, healthy humans maintain an average body temperature of around 98.6°F (37°C), with slight variations based on individual physiology and the time of day. So, why do some people constantly feel cold?

Before diving deeper, let’s eliminate two potential conditions that might be making you reach for that extra layer.

Two conditions that can lead to cold intolerance are Raynaud's disease and hypothyroidism, both of which require a professional diagnosis. Raynaud's disease symptoms include cold, numb fingers and toes that may turn blue or white, and it can also affect the ears and nose. This occurs due to poor blood circulation, where arteries narrow during stress or cold exposure, limiting blood flow to the skin's surface. While Raynaud's is rare, hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid, is more common and often causes cold sensitivity.

Now that we’ve addressed these conditions, let’s focus on the rest of us. Surprisingly, your diet, rather than your clothing choices, might be the reason you feel cold. Let’s explore the essential vitamins and minerals that help regulate your body temperature.

B Vitamin Deficiency Increases Your Cold Sensitivity

Your body regulates temperature through the hypothalamus, which acts as a thermostat. It collaborates with your skin, blood vessels, and sweat glands to make slight adjustments to maintain a healthy 98.6°F (37°C). Factors like hydration levels, body fat (which retains heat), and muscle tone (which generates heat even at rest) also influence how hot or cold you feel.

Your diet also plays a significant role.

Studies indicate that individuals deficient in B vitamins may experience heightened sensitivity to cold.

B vitamins, often referred to as the "energy vitamins," are crucial for converting food into energy. Beyond this, they support a robust immune system, aid in red blood cell production, promote healthy digestion, and maintain a well-functioning nervous system. A deficiency in vitamin B12, known as pernicious anemia, impairs the production of healthy red blood cells needed to transport oxygen, leading to cold hands, feet, and overall cold intolerance. Causes of B12 deficiency include malabsorption issues, autoimmune disorders, gastric bypass surgery, lack of intrinsic factor, or an unbalanced diet.

Iron also significantly impacts your sensitivity to cold. Iron-deficient anemia, more commonly discussed than pernicious anemia, can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, dizziness, pale skin, and cold intolerance. If warm drinks and extra layers don’t help, consulting a doctor to identify the root cause is advisable.