Symptom 8: Cold Intolerance
The eighth symptom of low ferritin is cold intolerance. If you find yourself feeling excessively cold, even in mild temperatures, low ferritin levels might be the cause. Iron is essential for maintaining your body’s temperature regulation, as it plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormones and the proper functioning of your metabolism.
When your body has low ferritin levels, it can lead to a decrease in thyroid hormone production, which in turn affects your metabolism. This can result in a reduced ability to generate body heat, causing you to feel colder than usual. In more severe cases, low ferritin levels can even contribute to the development of hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, which can exacerbate cold intolerance and lead to other symptoms, such as weight gain and fatigue.
Addressing low ferritin levels is essential for improving your body’s temperature regulation and reducing cold intolerance. Consult with your healthcare provider to identify the cause of your low ferritin levels and discuss appropriate treatments, such as increasing iron intake through diet or supplementation, addressing underlying medical conditions, or making lifestyle changes that support proper thyroid function.
In addition to seeking medical advice, consider implementing strategies to help you stay warm, such as dressing in layers, keeping your living environment at a comfortable temperature, and using heating devices like electric blankets or space heaters when necessary. (8)
