Why am I cold?

Here are some possible reasons you might be feeling chilly all the time:

You are underweight

If you have a low BMI (body mass index), you don’t have much body fat or muscle to keep you warm.

You are overweight

Research has shown people with more muscle mass – rather than fat – are less likely to lose fat when exposed to cold and more likely to warm up faster.

You are a woman

Females may be more sensitive to cold than men because they have a higher core temperature and a lower metabolic rate, which means they produce less heat.

You are getting older

As you age, your metabolic rate slows.  You also lose muscle mass – as much as 10% each decade after age 50.

You have got anaemia

Iron deficiency can be the result of blood loss, poor iron absorption or pregnancy.  Other symptoms are tiredness, looking pale and shortness of breath.

You have a vitamin B12 deficiency

Low levels are usually down to insufficient B12 in your diet – this vitamin only comes from animal products, including fish, meat, eggs and dairy, and supplements.

You might have hypothyroidism

If your thyroid isn’t producing enough hormones you can end up feeling tired, depress – and cold.

You have circulation problems

Narrowed arteries and clotting disorders can make you feel the cold, especially your hands and feet.

You could have diabetes

Diabetes can cause kidney, nerve and circulation problems, making your feel chilly.  Feet, in particular, may feel cold if you have nerve damage.