Have you ever noticed someone who always seems to need an extra layer, regardless of the temperature outside? They might be the ones wrapped in fluffy sweaters, sporting cozy mittens, or keeping a soft lap blanket close by while working.
If you identify as someone who’s always chilly, know that you are certainly not the only one!
What’s Behind the Cold Sensation?
Feeling cold often stems from a mismatch between your body’s internal “set point” and external temperatures, affecting the brain, blood circulation, and skin. Dr. Minson explains that your brain continuously processes information regarding temperature from different parts of your body.
If your skin begins to cool down—even when your core temperature stays steady—you might feel cold.
This sensation typically leads you to react by grabbing a warm sweater.
The Gender Perspective
It’s interesting to note that women tend to report feeling cold more than men do.
This can be tied to certain physiological differences.
Generally, people with less muscle mass relative to their body size, a common trait in women and older individuals, may not have a lower core temperature but often receive signals to retain heat, resulting in a chillier experience. Dr. Minson suggests that women might also have a denser network of blood vessels close to the skin surface, which could heighten their sensitivity to cooler temperatures, although this area warrants more investigation.
Strategies to Combat Cold Sensitivity
If you’re often feeling chilly and want to adjust your body’s response, there are a few approaches you might find helpful.
One effective method is to build muscle mass, which can raise your metabolic rate, although it may require dedication to meet those fitness goals.
Another surprising strategy is to expose yourself briefly to cold—like taking short, cold showers.
This may help your body acclimate to lower temperatures over time, reducing your cold sensitivity.
Just remember to ease into this practice gradually.
In summary, if you find yourself as a member of the #TeamAlwaysCold club, take comfort in knowing that your experience is valid and shared by many.
Unless you notice significant discomfort or other troubling symptoms, there is likely nothing wrong with your body’s temperature regulation.
Each of us has unique needs—yours might just mean dealing with a world that often feels too frigid.
So, embrace your chilly preferences! Here’s to warming up with cocoa—consider it a treat from #TeamHot!
Source: Upworthy