Doctors aren’t sure why some people get this disease, at least the primary (and the most common) kind. There’s also secondary Raynaud’s disease, which is brought about by another disease, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and tends to show up later in life. Those with Raynaud’s are highly sensitive—anything from touching cold water to being under a great deal of stress can provoke a flare-up. People with milder forms of the illness often find their own ways to deal with it, but anyone with symptoms should see a doctor to rule out the secondary version.

Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia—usually the result of blood loss or an insufficient diet—causes fatigue, dizziness, and an inability to stabilize body temperature. These symptoms occur because iron is necessary for proper thyroid function; when the body doesn’t have enough of it, body-heat regulation—which our thyroids contribute to—is compromised.

Anemia is most common in women, especially those past puberty and those who are pregnant. In fact, that’s probably why women tend to feel cold more often than men—because of our monthly cycles, they typically have lower iron levels. Taking supplements and incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet can help, but some diseases, such as Celiac’s, make it difficult to absorb iron. People with anemic symptoms should always consult a doctor to get diagnosed and receive proper treatment.

Melt the Ice in a Hurry
If you don’t feel particularly stressed, don’t have the symptoms of Raynaud’s or iron deficiency anemia, and still get cold feet and hands more easily than most people, that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to an icy life. Try these techniques that might minimize the problem—or at least warm you up faster.

    * For quick relief, put your extremities in warm water (showers are immediately helpful) or move your arms and legs in quick circles. Even a little aerobic exercise will get your blood pumping.
    * Keep hydrated to encourage blood flow
    * Learn to love spicy foods. Using liberal amounts of hot ingredients, like red chile flakes and cayenne pepper, will raise your inner body temperature.
    * Foods rich in omega-3s—like fish, walnuts, soy, and leafy greens—reduce blood vessel constriction

    * Get checked out for cardiovascular diseases, which can block blood flow through blood vessels, and thyroid issues
    * Try yoga. Some poses, like downward-facing dog and bridge, promote great circulation.

Personally, I’ve learned to never leave home without a good pair of gloves (a lesson my mom has drilled into me). But that’s only a temporary solution to a bigger problem. This winter, I refuse to live with hands and feet that could freeze fire. Instead, I’ll embrace yoga and five-alarm salsa and limit my exposure to smoke and stress. I think I feel warmer already!

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