Why You Feel Freezing Cold When Taking a GLP-1 Medication? How to Warm Up!

Why You Feel Cold on a GLP-1 Medication and How to Warm Up

If you’re taking a GLP-1 medication, like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound, you might have noticed a surprising side effect: feeling chilly more often than usual. Although it may seem strange, it’s a common experience for people on GLP-1 medications. Let’s take a look at why this happens and what you can do to feel warmer and more comfortable.

Why Does a GLP-1 Medication Make You Feel Cold?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications are known for their role in managing blood sugar, aiding weight loss, and curbing appetite. While they’re effective in these areas, they can also bring some side effects, and feeling cold is one of the more unexpected ones. Here’s why it happens:

1. Increased Weight Loss

GLP-1 medications are highly effective for weight loss, as they help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. However, as you lose weight, your body may also lose some insulating body fat, making it more difficult to retain heat. This is one reason why people who lose a significant amount of weight can feel colder, as they have less fat acting as a natural barrier against cold temperatures.

2. Lowered Metabolic Rate

Weight loss can also cause a slight dip in your metabolic rate. When your metabolism slows down, your body burns fewer calories at rest, which also means it generates less heat. While this change isn’t extreme, it can be enough to make a difference in how warm you feel.

3. Effects on Blood Flow and Circulation

Some people taking GLP-1 medications report experiencing changes in blood circulation, particularly in the extremities like hands and feet. This effect, though mild, can lead to feeling colder in those areas, especially if you’re in a cooler environment.

4. Reduced Caloric Intake

GLP-1 medications reduce your appetite, often resulting in a lower calorie intake. This drop in caloric intake can affect how much heat your body produces, making you feel colder, especially in comparison to before you started the medication.

5. Hormonal Changes

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking hormones in your body that control blood sugar and appetite. These hormonal adjustments can indirectly influence your body’s internal thermostat, though the mechanism behind this isn’t fully understood yet. Feeling colder could be one side effect of your body adjusting to this new hormonal balance.

Tips to Stay Warm While Taking GLP-1 Medications

While feeling chilly can be uncomfortable, there are plenty of simple ways to combat the cold without adjusting your medication. Here’s how to keep warm and cozy even if your GLP-1 medication makes you feel a little frostier than usual:

1. Dress in Layers

Dressing in layers is an easy and effective way to stay warm. Start with a base layer that’s close-fitting and made from a material like wool or a moisture-wicking fabric. Add layers depending on the temperature and your comfort level. A warm sweater and insulated jacket can be great for outside, while extra socks and a cozy blanket can make a big difference indoors.

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2. Stay Active

Exercise is one of the best ways to warm up your body naturally. Even light activities like stretching, a short walk, or gentle indoor exercises can boost circulation and raise your body temperature. If possible, try to move around every hour, especially if you’ve been sitting for a while, to keep your circulation flowing.

3. Warm Up from the Inside

Eating warm, nutrient-dense meals and drinking hot beverages can help raise your body temperature. Soups, stews, herbal teas, and even a hot cup of water with lemon can provide warmth and comfort. If you’re watching your calorie intake, opt for low-calorie warm drinks like herbal tea or hot water with a splash of apple cider vinegar for added flavor.

4. Try Heating Pads or Warm Packs

A heating pad, warm pack, or even a microwaveable heatable sock can make a huge difference if you’re feeling particularly cold. Place them on your hands, feet, or lap for a quick warm-up boost, especially if you’re sitting at a desk or watching TV.

5. Focus on Insulated Accessories

If you find that your hands and feet are the coldest, prioritize gloves, thermal socks, and slippers. Cold extremities can make your whole body feel colder, so investing in good-quality thermal accessories for winter or a chilly day can help keep you warm and comfortable.

6. Take Warm Showers or Baths

A warm shower or bath not only feels relaxing but can also raise your core body temperature. If possible, try to time a warm shower before heading to bed for a cozy night’s sleep. This can be especially helpful in winter when you want to warm up quickly after coming in from the cold.

7. Keep a Balanced Calorie Intake

If you’re on a reduced-calorie diet due to your GLP-1 medication, ensure that you’re still getting a balanced intake of nutrients. Eating enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs can support your metabolism and help generate more body heat. Check in with your doctor or a nutritionist if you’re not sure if your calorie intake is balanced for your body’s needs.

8. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can sometimes make you feel colder than usual, so keep an eye on your water intake. Warm water, herbal teas, or even adding lemon to water can make hydration feel more comforting in colder weather.

9. Adjust Your Home Environment

Make sure your home environment is as warm and cozy as you need it to be. Use space heaters in areas where you spend a lot of time, add extra blankets to your living spaces, and consider heated bedding for an extra layer of warmth at night.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

For most people, feeling colder on a GLP-1 medication is a mild side effect and can be managed with a few simple lifestyle adjustments. However, if you experience other symptoms, like extreme fatigue, dizziness, or unusually low blood pressure, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor. They can help determine whether the feeling of cold is purely related to the medication or if there’s an underlying issue that needs attention.

Embracing the Change

While feeling cold more often may take some getting used to, the benefits of GLP-1 medications—such as improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and reduced appetite—are well worth it for many people. Plus, knowing why this side effect happens and how to manage it can help you adjust and find more comfort in your day-to-day life. So, if you’re bundling up more than usual, consider it a small price for the positive changes happening within your body. With a few simple tips, you can stay warm and enjoy the full benefits of your GLP-1 medication—without the constant chill! Check out our Podcast for other tips, tricks and great stories.