Getting older comes with its fair share of surprises, and one of them might be feeling colder than you used to. If you’ve wondered why you always seem to grab a sweater while everyone else is fine, there’s science behind it. Here’s a quick breakdown of why your body starts feeling colder as you age, as well as how you can adapt to stay comfortable.
Weaker Circulation
As you grow older, your circulatory system can start to weaken. This happens when blood vessels lose some of their elasticity or when conditions like arteriosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) develop. Blood is responsible for transporting warmth throughout the body, so if circulation slows, you will probably get chilly, especially in your hands and feet. Having poor circulation also means it takes longer for your body to warm up once it gets cold.
Thinner Fat Layers
Fat helps your body stay warm. More specifically, subcutaneous fat (the layer of fat just under your skin) acts like insulation, keeping your body heat in. Unfortunately, as we age, we tend to lose some of this fat, leaving us more vulnerable to the cold.
Slower Metabolism
Your metabolism is what helps your body generate energy and, with it, heat. When you’re younger, your metabolism works more quickly, burning calories and keeping you warm in the process. But as time goes on, metabolism naturally slows, leaving your internal heater running a little less efficiently. While this is a completely normal part of aging, it’s one of the reasons your toes may feel like ice blocks in the winter.
How You Can Stay Warm
Now you know why your body starts feeling colder as you age, but you don’t have to live wrapped up in a blanket. First and foremost, address your living situation. Does your home have ample insulation and an efficient HVAC system? If not, now is the time to add more insulation to your home’s walls and upgrade to a new HVAC unit controlled by a smart thermostat.
Next, address your lifestyle and personal care. You might need to get some warmer clothes made of wool and down. You should also stay active. This is fantastic for your overall well-being and longevity. Moreover, exercise increases your body’s heat immediately and boosts your metabolism over time for long-term warmth.
Finally, if feeling cold becomes extreme or occurs alongside other symptoms, it could relate to an underlying medical condition like hypothyroidism. Consult your doctor if your home and lifestyle changes don’t resolve your discomfort or your suspect and underlying cause.
