How To Avoid Gaining Weight In The Wintertime

We already explained that winter weight gains happen because of our biology, and the correlation between being cold and our bodies thinking they're deprived of nutrients when in this state, so the key to keep the weight off is too fool our bodies. The best way to do it is to increase the blood flow. Winter in a nutshell means minimal activity — sitting at home doing nothing. Doing anything that will increase the blood flow, like winter sports or a simple brisk walk around the neighborhood will do the trick.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Around 6% of USA population suffers from a type of depression that is caused by lack of sunlight. It happens at the time of year when days become shorter, but often goes away in the spring. This disorder decreases levels of serotonin, a chemical known as “happiness hormone”, responsible for mood regulations.

A good way to increase serotonin levels is by exercising. Working out and sweating also decrease levels of the stress and anxiety causing hormone called cortisol. Also, make sure you get your daily dose of light, even though it's not warm, it's still a sunlight and going out still has benefits.

Importance Of Physical Activity

Winter brings holidays to many cultures and parts of the world. We tend to indulge in all the wonderful flavors and it's normal to put on some weight. It's great to gather the family and to share stories by the fire, it makes us all warm and cheery. Carbohydrate rich foods like sugar and starches provide the instant high and warm feelings. Even though it feels nice, don't indulge in carbs because they're energy and you don't have enough time or activity to burn them.

Turn to high protein meals like chicken, fish, eggs and whole-wheat products, because they tend to keep us full longer. In order to keep the weight off, exercise or just walk around. Do house chores, anything that will keep you physically active. This will make the blood vessels carry the blood to all parts of the body and keep it warm.

Another reason we gain weight in the wintertime is because we don't drink enough water. Hunger is often just a side-effect of being thirsty. When the body is thirsty, it tries to squeeze water out of food. Make sure you drink plenty of water. You may not need as much as you should be drinking in summers, but don't go lower than two liters a day.

READ Top 10 Winter Foods

Seek Comfort In Other Places Than Kitchen

If you crave that warm feeling the food offers, there are other ways to achieve it. Hug people around you, pick up a blanket and cuddle with your loved ones. Hugging also releases serotonin, and you've learned about its benefits earlier in the text. Playing with pets is another great way to forget about food and increase serotonin levels.