Why Are You Always Cold? 5 Reasons That Have Nothing to Do with Your Clothes

We all encounter them from time to time: those people who are always shivering, no matter what they do. Why does this happen, and does it make sense? The answer is: absolutely. Even when dressed warmly, there can be underlying reasons for constantly feeling cold that have nothing to do with the number of layers on your body.

Here are some common factors that may contribute to feeling cold:

Low Body Fat
It's no secret that people with more body fat tend to feel less cold. Body fat provides insulation, helping retain warmth. Individuals with less body fat may feel the cold more intensely, as they have a thinner "insulating layer."

Poor Blood Circulation
Poor blood circulation, also called peripheral artery disease, occurs when blood flow to certain parts of the body—often the arms and legs—is reduced. This can result from various causes: plaque buildup, where fatty deposits accumulate in the arteries; blood clots, which block arteries or veins; or diabetes, where high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and impair circulation.

Underactive Thyroid
An underactive thyroid slows down metabolism, which can contribute to feeling cold.

Anemia
A deficiency in red blood cells, which carry oxygen to tissues, can make you feel colder. When the skin isn’t receiving enough oxygen, we feel the chill more intensely.

Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can affect blood flow, making it harder for your body to maintain warmth.