Overeat: Research has shown that people eat more in the winter, and there are a few possible reasons for this higher appetite. Most people would agree that winter is the time of year for robust, rich foods. A cold winter diet consists primarily of hearty, carbohydrate-rich foods, sweet desserts, and creamy sauces. During the winter, many people claim to feel hungrier, with increased thirst and a greater desire for snacks.
Winter was a dangerous season in the past, long before people could buy a variety of food at their neighborhood grocery stores and lived in climate-controlled, well-insulated homes.
The amount of food accessible in the colder months depended on the fall harvest, and if those supplies dwindled, new ones were hard to come by unless you were extremely wealthy. This is why it is possible that our biological constitution is deeply ingrained with the need to latch on to food at the first sign of freezing weather.
Besides this natural need to eat more in winter, one can also do it to keep oneself warm. Food warms us and can lead the urge to eat continuously. Apart from this, winter is often dark for most of us. This prompts to overeating as a way to increase serotonin.
All these factors combined lead to overeating in winter. Now that we understand the causes, we can better deal with winter overeating. In this article, let’s discuss ways we can avoid overeating during this cozy season.
Here’s how to prevent overeat?
1. Get enough sunlight
Winter’s short days and lack of sunlight can cause serotonin levels to drop, which makes the brain want to lift the chemical, leading to carbohydrate binges. To get the most light in the winter, spend some time near the window and take a trip outside. Make sure your dining room and kitchen have plenty of light so you’re not cooking or eating in a dimly lit area.
2. Eat mood-boosting foods
How we feel is affected by what we take in. While you may believe that a big packet of chips or a bag of cupcakes will do the trick, there are actually a number of healthy choices that can help you get through the winter. Bananas, strawberries, dark chocolate, almonds, peppers and avocados are good snacks.
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3. Stay hydrated
Water intake has a profound effect on every aspect of life, including appetite and physical performance. When dehydration turns into hunger, many people overeat when they don’t really need to eat. Always carry a bottle of water with you and use fresh or frozen fruit if you want to add a little flavor. Whenever you reach for food, be sure to assess your appetite. If you’ve just eaten, your need for a snack may simply be a result of thirst.
4. Don’t keep unhealthy food around
To earn your favorite treat, brace yourself for the winter weather and take a walk outside. Therefore you will not be tempted to indulge frequently. Naturally, though, stock your home with a variety of nutritious foods. As a result, when you go to the kitchen for a meal, you will choose healthy options instead of junk food.
5. Increase protein intake
Whether you’re trying to gain or lose weight, protein should be a staple in your eating routine. Eating protein helps you process more calories than eating fat or carbohydrates, which is its most outstanding part. Similarly, consuming protein promotes muscle growth and recovery.
6. Eat more fiber
These two benefits of fiber, which can fill you up and speed up bowel movement, are important in winter, when overall physical fitness declines. Try to eat 30 grams of fiber per day with high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, lentils, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
7. Workout
Working out on these cold windy days can seem like a nightmare. However, they are very necessary. Sometimes it can be difficult to go outside in winter. But if you can find winter activities that you can participate in while wearing season-appropriate clothing, it can be a great way to get your heart rate up, Which is an incredible method to get lose weight and gives you a much needed boost.
- These tips will help you keep your diet under control and avoid overeating during the winter season.