Cold Hands and Feet Even in Summer? Your Habits May Be Why!

Peripheral blood vessels are the tiny capillaries responsible for delivering blood to every corner of your body, keeping it warm and functioning. During winter, when temperatures drop, these vessels naturally constrict to prioritize blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain, which is why many of us experience cold hands and feet in the colder months.
 

But what if your hands and feet stay cold even in the middle of summer? While it might seem strange, this is a common issue for some people. So, what’s really going on here? Let’s dive into the possible reasons behind this surprising phenomenon.

Could Cold Hands and Feet Be Linked to Kidney Deficiency?

In Japanese Kampo, the kidneys are considered the foundation of life, responsible for storing vital energy (known as "essence") and serving as the core of the body’s functions. Kidney yang, often compared to the warmth of the sun, provides the energy needed to maintain the body’s warmth and support the proper functioning of all internal organs. When kidney yang becomes deficient, the flow of qi and blood slows down, reducing circulation to the extremities. This can lead to a persistent feeling of cold hands and feet even during the heat of summer.
 

While some people may naturally have a colder constitution, a weakening of kidney yang is often linked to certain lifestyle habits. For example, regularly consuming iced drinks, eating too many cold or raw foods, or spending long hours in air-conditioned environments can deplete the body's yang energy, making it harder to keep warm. Additionally, women who wear thin clothing like tank tops and shorts in summer without proper care for their body’s warmth are more susceptible to the intrusion of cold. This can further disrupt qi and blood flow, contributing to poor circulation and cold extremities.
 

For those with kidney yang deficiency, cold hands and feet are often accompanied by other signs such as pale complexion, fatigue, and a general sense of weakness. Addressing these symptoms early with dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and practices that support overall warmth and circulation is essential to improving blood flow and restoring balance to the body.

Summer Recipes to Strengthen Kidney Health

Simple lifestyle adjustments can go a long way in improving your overall well-being. During summer, it’s important to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, avoid spending too much time in air-conditioned environments, and limit the intake of cold or raw foods, as these habits can deplete your body’s yang energy.
 

To help you stay balanced and energized, we’ve put together a summer-friendly recipes that nourish kidney health, support yang energy, and promote better circulation. Let’s get cooking and give your body the boost it needs!
 

Sweet Potatoes in Ginger Syrup (Serves 2–3)
Ingredients:
Sweet potatoes: 2
Ginger: 3 slices
Brown sugar: to taste

Benefits:
This dish warms the body, supports kidney health, and helps improve cold constitutions. It’s particularly suitable for those with weaker digestion.

Instructions:

1. Wash the sweet potatoes, peel them, and cut into chunks.
2. Wash the ginger and slice it into thin slices.
3. Place the sweet potatoes and ginger into a pot, then add an appropriate amount of water.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer until the sweet potatoes are soft.
5. Add brown sugar to taste, stir until dissolved, and serve warm.

DTS: Improving Cold Hands and Feet from the Root

In addition, taking DTS may be a good idea to provide extra support for your liver and kidney health. DTS contains the essence of Panax pseudo ginseng and Eucommia, both known for their health-promoting benefits.
 

Panax pseudo-ginseng is celebrated for its ability to improve blood circulation and dissolve blood stasis. It promotes blood flow to the extremities and helps alleviate the cold sensation caused by poor circulation. Meanwhile, Eucommia can strengthen the kidneys, promote yang energy, and fortifies muscles and bones. It is particularly effective for individuals with kidney yang deficiency, especially those experiencing lower back and knee weakness.
 

When paired with healthy lifestyle habits, such as reducing the consumption of cold foods, maintaining regular exercise, and staying warm, DTS can work wonders in enhancing your overall health, improving circulation, and resolving issues like cold hands and feet. Give your body the support it needs to thrive!