Freezing this winter? Your thyroid might be to blame
Find yourself wearing thermals, gloves and fluffy socks when everyone else is comfortable with just a jacket? While some do feel the cold more than others, it can also be a sign that your thyroid is in need of some TLC.
Temperature sensitivity in winter is a common but often overlooked symptom of thyroid dysfunction. It could be general hypothyroidism triggered by something like a virus, or it could be undiagnosed Hashimoto’s. Even those with Graves’ disease may experience this due to the effects of Graves’ medication and interventions like partial thyroidectomies.
Why does this happen?
Your thyroid hormones help control your metabolism – the complex process the body uses for energy and heat production. So when thyroid hormones shift, your internal thermostat can be disrupted as a result.
This can lead to:
Poor circulation, particularly in the extremities (hands and feet)
Lower core body temperature, even when you’re in a warm room
Slowed digestion, which also contributes to your temperature maintenance
Along with all of these, if you have an autoimmune thyroid condition, there can be more fluctuations. Sometimes your thyroid hormones might suddenly drop after a period of thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis) or a time of intense stress.
So how do thyroid hormones help generate heat?
Thyroid hormones play a direct role in energy production in your body’s cells. They power the mitochondria, which drive the process of making energy within each cell. When your thyroid is underactive or you’re not converting enough hormone into the active form, the mitochondria slow down. And as a result, your body produces less energy and less heat.
You might notice signs such as:
Feeling cold to the bone, even when others around you are comfortable
Needing extra heat or layers to sleep – think heat packs, heated blanket or layers of pajamas and blankets
Taking longer to warm up after getting cold
It’s not just that you’re uncomfortable. It is a signal from your body that your system isn’t keeping up with demand.
Simple ways to stay warmer this winter
When you’re feeling colder than everyone else, it’s not because you're 'just being sensitive'. Keeping yourself comfortable is important, otherwise being cold constantly can act as a further trigger for thyroid dysfunction - because that’s right, it’s a form of stress on the body.
So here are some simple tips to keep yourself warmer:
Dress in cosy layers, even when you're indoors
Choose warm, cooked meals to support digestion - no need to stick to salads when it's soup and stew season!
Avoid skipping meals (your body actually uses the process of digestion as a way to stay warm!)
If you already have a thyroid diagnosis, talk to your practitioner if you're feeling colder or worse than usual - it might be that you need a little extra support at this time of year
Remember - keep those toes toasty, and don’t ignore what your body’s telling you.
Don’t have a thyroid diagnosis?
If this winter has you wrapped in blankets while everyone else is fine? It’s worth checking in with your health practitioner, especially if you don’t have a known thyroid issue. Your temperature sensitivity isn’t something to just brush off, especially if it’s paired with other symptoms such as fatigue, mood dips, or foggy thinking.