If you often feel unusually cold, even when others seem comfortable, it might not just be the weather — your body could be lacking some vital vitamins. Here’s what experts say about which vitamin deficiencies can make you more sensitive to cold.

Feeling Cold Frequently? Here’s What It Means

Many people complain about feeling colder than others. While external factors like weather and clothing play a role, the body’s internal nutritional balance also significantly affects how it regulates temperature. If you often find your hands and feet cold, feel tired easily, or shiver even in mild weather, your body could be signaling a deficiency in key vitamins that help maintain warmth and energy levels.

1. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is crucial for producing red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body and help maintain normal body temperature. A lack of this vitamin can reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, making you feel cold more often.

Common symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency include:

• Constant fatigue and weakness

• Numbness in hands and feet

• Pale or yellowish skin tone

• Shortness of breath

• Feeling excessively cold

Natural sources of Vitamin B12:

• Eggs

• Milk and yogurt

• Fish and chicken

• Fortified cereals

If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may be more prone to Vitamin B12 deficiency and should consider fortified foods or supplements after consulting a doctor.

2. Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D plays an essential role in calcium absorption and bone strength. It also supports muscle function and immunity. Deficiency in this vitamin can lead to muscle pain, fatigue, and increased sensitivity to cold. Since sunlight is the main source of Vitamin D, people who stay indoors for long periods may experience low levels, especially in winter.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency:

• Joint or muscle pain

• Frequent tiredness

• Mood swings

• Feeling unusually cold

Sources of Vitamin D:

• Sunlight (15–20 minutes daily exposure)

• Egg yolk

• Mushrooms

• Fortified milk and cereals

3. Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight infections. Without enough Vitamin C, you may catch colds more frequently, experience fatigue, and develop dry or rough skin. The body also becomes less capable of maintaining warmth efficiently.

Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency:

• Frequent cough and cold

• Persistent fatigue

• Dry or rough skin

• Slow healing of wounds

Natural sources of Vitamin C:

• Amla (Indian gooseberry)

• Oranges and lemons

• Guava and tomatoes

• Green chilies

How to Prevent Vitamin Deficiency and Stay Warm

To avoid vitamin-related cold sensitivity, maintain a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Here are some practical tips:

✅ Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables: Include citrus fruits, leafy greens, and dairy products regularly.
☀️ Get adequate sunlight: Spend at least 15–20 minutes outdoors daily to boost Vitamin D naturally.
💊 Take supplements when needed: If blood tests confirm a deficiency, take vitamin supplements under medical supervision.
🩺 Get regular health check-ups: Especially during winter, monitor your vitamin levels to ensure your body is well-balanced.

Bottom Line:
Feeling cold all the time is not just about the temperature outside — it can reflect nutritional gaps within your body. Deficiencies in Vitamins B12, D, and C can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate heat, leading to increased cold sensitivity. By maintaining a balanced diet and taking timely preventive steps, you can keep your body warm, energetic, and healthy throughout the winter.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.