Winter has kicked in finally. The signs are everywhere – a slowing down of activity, increased appetites even as temperatures drop, even fatter birds in the garden. If you feel your body is carrying some extra holiday weight, you’re not wrong. But don’t worry, you’re not the only one, especially if you live in India. The lead-up to winter is usually a series of festivals accompanied by the most tempting calorie-heavy delicacies and celebratory eating that leaves little time for physical exercise.
The fact that body temperatures are cooling down and vitamin D is in short supply is more reason for your weight gain in the winter months. This can also leave people in low spirits and depressed, with a tendency to overeat. The term winter blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a reality, which is closely linked to weight gain.
Scientific research on the winter weight gain phenomenon provides further insights. For instance, the production of serotonin, a regulator of sleep, appetites, and moods, can take a hit in winter because of its dependency on sunlight. Lower serotonin in the body can intensify hunger but reduce the sense of satisfaction even after you’ve eaten, misleading your body into thinking it needs more food.
Read More: 3 reasons you feel hungrier and crave comfort foods when the weather turns cold
Researchers believe the act of “storing fat is insurance against the risk of failing to find food – this risk was perceived to be highest during winter by pre-industrial humans.”
Managing That Extra Weight
The winter weight gain can put you at risk of type 2 diabetes, potentially leading to more serious health challenges to the kidneys, vision etc. Weight gain combined with lower Vitamin D levels can worsen aching joints, even causing stiffness and inflammation in some cases.
While there’s no denying that many factors contribute to winter weight gain, the silver lining is that the body’s metabolism speeds up in winter – the body burns more calories to maintain body temperature in winter. So winter is the best time to lose weight.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you manage your winter weight better:
Tip #1 – Soak up More Sun
As much as you can, catch the natural sunlight. It will lift up your spirits and soothe aching bones and joints. And if you’re stuck indoors, open up those curtains and windows during the day and try to sit close to the sunlight.
Tip #2 – Meet Hunger Pangs With QNET’s Healthy Options
Reimagine your diet with healthy options like soups and curries that are loaded with fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits and nuts. Nutriplus Qafé can also help curb – it contains chlorogenic acid (CGA), which is known to help effectively manage weight in a safe and natural way.
Switching to a healthier cooking oil like QNET’s Nutriplus Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), can also help burn fat and improve your metabolism. VCO is a natural, cold-pressed coconut oil in its purest form. It is one of the world’s healthiest oils. A low-carb diet and switching to VCO can do wonders for your weight management.
Read More: 5 Reasons to Switch to a Healthy Cooking Oil | Nutriplus VCO
Another easy swap you can make is replacing your regular honey with Nutriplus Monofloral Honey. It’s a 100% natural honey harvested from a single source. Honey is also known for enhancing how your body burns fat when you are asleep. Eating honey first thing in the morning on an empty stomach can help boost your metabolism and help manage that extra weight.
And that’s not all, QNET India has a wide range of products so you can embrace a healthy lifestyle.
Read More: Embrace A 360-degree Healthy Lifestyle With QNET
Tip #3 – Stay Hydrated
Althoughyou may not feel thirsty often, you still need to drink a lot of water during winter. Hydration is key during the dry wintry months. Keep regular reminders so you don’t forget to drink enough water – there are even apps that give you reminders to hydrate.
Tip #4 – Exercise Daily and Stay Active
The body’s faster metabolic response in winter means with the right mix of a healthy diet and exercise, you can shed those extra kilos in no time. Even brisk walks, working out at home and playing some fun sports will help manage your weight better.
These tips give you a natural and effective way to manage your weight this winter. QNET India’s health and wellness products can support your weight management goals and help you be a healthier and happier version of yourself this winter.
