Key takeaways 💡
Feeling constantly cold can have many causes: medical (anemia, hypothyroidism), lifestyle-related (diet, hydration), or purely physiological (metabolism, brown fat). If this feeling of cold persists, it is essential to seek medical advice to find the cause. At the same time, there are solutions available to help you regain control of your temperature and feel comfortable again.
Introduction
Does this sound familiar: feeling like a walking ice cube while everyone else is in a T-shirt? Your hands are frozen, you layer up like an onion, but nothing helps: that feeling of cold clings to you and won't let go. This persistent chilliness, which makes you shiver even at night and disrupts your sleep, can really sap your energy on a daily basis.
The good news? You're not alone! At G-Heat, we've been helping thousands of people like you who want to regain control of their body temperature for years. We know that understanding the causes is the first step to winning the battle.
So, are you ready? In this guide, we'll break down why your body reacts this way, distinguish between simple sensitivity and a warning sign, and, most importantly, give you the keys to regaining control of your thermal comfort. Let's get started!
Medical causes that explain the feeling of being constantly cold
Anemia and iron deficiency: when your engine lacks oxygen
Are you feeling exhausted and constantly cold? The reason may be iron deficiency. Lack of iron can lead to anemia, a condition that prevents your blood from carrying enough oxygen. Without this essential fuel, your body struggles to produce the heat it needs to warm you up, and your metabolism slows down. Hemoglobin levels are a key indicator to monitor.
- Unmistakable signs: paleness, shortness of breath, cold hands and feet.
- Immediate action: eat a diet rich in iron and vitamin C (which helps absorb it). Vitamin B12 is also an ally.
- Coach's advice: talk to your doctor about getting a complete blood test to rule out any risks.
Hypothyroidism: when your internal thermostat is in eco mode
What if your thyroid, the conductor of your metabolism, was running slowly? Hypothyroidism disrupts the production of thyroid hormones and therefore the production of natural heat. When this gland malfunctions, your body goes into energy-saving mode, which can lead to a constant feeling of cold, even when it's not that cold.
Diabetes and blood circulation disorders
Diabetes can affect your blood vessels, directly impacting your circulation. When blood circulation slows down, especially in the extremities (the famous cold feet and hands), certain parts of the body no longer receive enough heat. It's as if your body's central heating system is malfunctioning, leaving sensitive areas without comfort.
Blood circulation is your body's central heating system. When it slows down, certain areas no longer receive enough heat. That's why we've developed targeted solutions to warm up precisely these sensitive areas.
— Gwenaël Fournet, Product Expert at G-Heat
Medications that disrupt your temperature regulation
Certain treatments can affect your thermoregulation. Beta blockers, for example, can slow down your circulation, while other medications alter your perspiration. If you feel cold since starting a new treatment, it's a good idea to discuss it with your doctor to find solutions.
See also: Why do we have cold feet?
Your lifestyle: a direct impact on your temperature
Fuel up! The impact of your diet
Skipping a meal deprives your body of the calories it needs to produce its own heat. A balanced diet and regular meals boost your metabolism. Proteins, for example, require more energy to digest, creating a natural warming effect. Also, consider essential nutrients so you don't miss anything.
- Your thermogenic allies: ginger, cinnamon, chili pepper.
- The right rhythm: regular meals to keep the engine running.
- Smart hydration: hot drinks that warm you from the inside.
Dehydration, the false friend of your body's temperature regulation
Are you drinking enough water? Poor hydration slows down your circulation and prevents your body from regulating its temperature properly. Water is your body's heat transporter; without it, it is impossible to maintain a normal physiological balance.
⚠️ The trap of a hot bath to warm up quickly: Immersing yourself in very hot water gives an immediate feeling of comfort, but creates a thermal shock. When you get out, your body compensates for this artificial heat by lowering its temperature, leaving you colder than before and permanently disrupting your natural thermoregulation.
Your muscles: your personal radiators!
Your muscles are natural radiators! Good muscle mass constantly produces heat, even at rest. Regular physical activity is therefore one of the best strategies for saying goodbye to feeling cold and no longer shivering at the slightest gust of wind.
Prolonged exposure to the cold: when your body says stop
Working in a cold environment exhausts your body's ability to adapt. Over time, your body may end up going into “survival” mode, reducing its heat production to conserve energy. It is therefore crucial to be well equipped to avoid suffering from these conditions.
Understanding physiological differences in response to cold
Brown fat: your superpower for warmth
Did you know that you have a special type of fat that burns calories to keep you warm? This highly active brown fat tends to decrease with age, and its quantity varies from person to person. Some people naturally have less of it, which partly explains why they are always cold.
Your body in tune with hormones
Your hormonal system, via the hypothalamus in the brain, regulates your temperature. Fluctuations in estrogen or other hormones alter your perception of cold. A decrease or drop in certain hormones can lead to increased sensitivity to low temperatures. Women are particularly sensitive to these variations.
| Hormonal Phase | Thermal Impact | Perceived Sensation |
|---|---|---|
| Ovulation | Slight increase in temperature | Less sensitivity to cold |
| Period | Slight decrease in temperature | Greater feeling of cold |
| Menopause | Thermal regulation imbalance | Hot/cold alternation |
Age and changes in your thermal capabilities
Over time, your metabolism slows down, your skin becomes thinner, and your blood vessels lose elasticity. These natural changes explain why seniors often feel colder and why it is even more important for them to stay active and well protected.
Raynaud's phenomenon: hypersensitivity to cold
Do your fingers turn white and then blue when exposed to cold? Raynaud's disease affects nearly 10% of the population. This hypersensitivity causes blood vessel spasms, a painful reaction that requires appropriate thermal protection for the extremities.
See also: How to relieve cold urticaria?
Chilliness or warning sign? When to listen to your body
Signs not to ignore
Do you feel cold even in a heated room? This abnormal sensation may hide an underlying medical condition. Seeing a doctor should be a priority if you also experience extreme fatigue, pain, or unexplained weight loss. Your health comes first!
- Unexplained weight loss: may be a sign of a metabolic disorder.
- Blue extremities: a blood circulation problem that should not be taken lightly.
- Mental confusion: may indicate the onset of hypothermia.
Distinguishing between sensitivity to cold and symptoms
How can you tell if it's just you or if it's a symptom? Pathological sensitivity to cold is often accompanied by other signs. An isolated feeling of cold, without any other discomfort, is generally harmless and can be managed with the right strategies and equipment.
Our experience with thousands of customers has taught us one thing: there is a solution for every type of sensitivity to cold. Whether medical or environmental, the right equipment can really transform your daily life. We see people regaining their freedom of movement after years of suffering.
— Édouard Castaignet, CEO and co-founder of G-Heat
Tests to find the source of the problem
For an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will likely order blood tests. TSH for thyroid hormones, ferritin for iron deficiency, blood sugar for diabetes. These tests are essential for identifying the cause and determining the right treatment.
Take back control! Your new everyday weapons against the cold
Boost your diet to produce more heat
Activate your thermogenesis with the right foods! Protein can increase your heat production by 30%. Add spices, dried fruit, and omega-3s to keep your inner fire burning all day long.
💡 Author's opinion: Start your day with a hot, protein-rich breakfast. This simple habit keeps your metabolism active and your temperature stable until lunchtime. It's one of my best tips!
Get moving for lasting warmth!
Movement is life... and warmth! Exercise raises your temperature for several hours. Regular physical activity also builds muscle mass, your natural permanent heating system.
- Boost your cardio: 30 minutes of brisk walking every day.
- Build your radiators: strength training twice a week.
- Get your energy flowing: dynamic yoga for circulation.
Become a pro at the onion technique!
Master the art of 3 layers! Layering creates insulating pockets of air between your clothes, an ultra-effective barrier against the cold. This method maintains your body heat without making you sweat, for optimal comfort in all circumstances.
Create your own cocoon to maximize your comfort
Transform your space into a haven of thermal well-being. An ideal temperature between 66 and 70°F, humidity around 50%, and rugs on the floor can significantly improve your everyday comfort.
How does G-Heat turn the cold into a mere detail?
At G-Heat, we believe that feeling cold should never prevent you from living life to the fullest. Our mission: to give you the means to regain control over your comfort, whatever the cause of your sensitivity to cold, with our heated clothing and heated accessories.
- Warmth that follows you everywhere: our technologies diffuse gentle, even heat exactly where your body needs it, so you remain in control of your movements.
- Solutions designed for you: we develop specific ranges for conditions such as Raynaud's disease, with heating zones adapted for targeted relief.
- Personalized support: our team is here to help you choose the perfect equipment for your situation, with genuine follow-up.
- Long-lasting freedom: up to 6 hours of continuous heat so you can enjoy your passions without interruption, whether you're indoors or outdoors.
- Your comfort all year round: we are one of the only French brands to offer thermoregulation for both heat AND cold with our cooling clothing, because your well-being knows no season.
💡 Our expert advice: If you suffer from chronic sensitivity to the cold, start with our heated gloves. It is often through the extremities that the cold sets in. Once your hands are warm, your whole body will feel comfortable again.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to say goodbye to that constant feeling of cold? As you can see, it doesn't have to be that way. Whether the solution lies in your diet, in a consultation to rule out a medical cause, or in choosing the right equipment, you now have all the cards in your hand. Every action counts in regaining your well-being.
At G-Heat, we are proud to be by your side in this quest, with solutions that are tailored to you. Because once the cause has been identified, the right equipment can literally change your life and allow you to enjoy every moment, without the cold being a concern.
FAQ
Can heated clothing help me if I have hypothyroidism?
Absolutely! Our heated clothing is an excellent complement. It compensates for your body's lack of heat production while your medical treatment takes effect, helping you regain immediate comfort in your daily life.
How long do G-Heat batteries last?
They offer up to 6 hours of freedom on low intensity, 4 hours on average, and 2.5 hours on max mode. Enough to enjoy a beautiful day of activity without worrying about the cold! A full charge takes 4-5 hours.
How do I choose the right size for a heated vest?
Trust yourself and choose your usual size! Our heated vests are designed to be worn close to the body, over thin clothing, to ensure perfect heat distribution. If in doubt, our customer service team is here to help.
Can I wear heated clothing all day long?
Yes, that's what they're designed for! Our products are designed for daily, intensive use. The heating zones are strategically placed for your comfort. You can adjust the intensity throughout the day according to your activities and how you feel, even with PPE such as heated work gloves.
How do I wash my G-Heat heated clothing?
It's very simple: remove the battery and pop it in the washing machine at 30°C on a delicate cycle. Our heated products are made to last. Leave them to dry flat and they're ready to go again!
Are there any medical contraindications?
As a precaution, pacemaker wearers and pregnant women should seek medical advice before use. In case of loss of sensitivity (severe neuropathy), caution is recommended. For any medical condition, your doctor's approval is your best ally.
References
[1] “WHO guidelines help detect iron deficiency and protect brain development,” World Health Organization (WHO)
[2] “Hypothyroidism - Hormonal and Metabolic Disorders,” MSD Manuals
[3] “Raynaud's disease - symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention,” VIDAL
[4] “Out in the Cold,” Harvard Health Publishing
[5] “The effects of heatwaves and cold spells on patients admitted with acute ischemic stroke,” National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
About the author
