How to manage body coldness and sensitivity to cold in individuals
Disease description:
I have a naturally cold constitution and am very sensitive to cold. I need to wear a lot of clothing to feel warm in winter, and my body always feels cold in summer as well. I would like to ask for advice on how to manage or improve a cold constitution with sensitivity to cold.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Being sensitive to cold may indicate a constitution with a deficiency in yang energy. Improvements can be made through the following approaches:
1. Dietary adjustment: Increase intake of warm-natured foods and avoid excessive consumption of raw, cold, or cooling foods. Drinking warm ginger tea or goji berry and red date tea may also help improve body constitution.
2. Lifestyle habits: Maintain a regular routine and avoid staying up late, as this may lead to yang deficiency. Increase outdoor activities appropriately, especially daytime exercises exposed to sunlight, such as walking, jogging, or practicing Tai Chi, to enhance metabolic rate.
3. Keeping warm: Pay attention to dressing warmly, especially keeping the feet and waist warm, as these areas are key points where yang energy gathers in the body. Choose clothing with good thermal insulation, such as down jackets and wool undergarments. Using an electric blanket or a hot water bottle during sleep may also be helpful.
4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy: Consider TCM treatments such as acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion, which can help promote blood circulation and enhance yang energy in the body.
If cold sensitivity persists and is accompanied by other uncomfortable symptoms, it is advisable to undergo a comprehensive medical examination to rule out hypothermia caused by conditions such as hypothyroidism or other underlying diseases.
