Are you eating more right now, than you were a couple of months ago?
Does it seem like no matter how much you eat, you just never feel full and are ready for the next meal?
It’s not you, the weather is to blame. Studies have shown that we tend to consume significantly more number of calories as the weather gets colder. Some researchers believe that this may stem from the fact that as primates we piled on the calories to sustain us for the cold weather when food would be scarce. These impulses from centuries ago have remained embedded in us.
Add to that, the fact that cold weather brings with it holiday binges, festive sweets and New Year celebrations…the temptations are too many.
But, don’t let the weather get the better of you, follow these tips to stay on track for your post-surgical weight loss.
Choose the right carbs
Our nerve cells produce a chemical called Serotonin aka the feel-good chemical. In the cold weather, Serotonin drops which make us crave for refined, sugar-laden foods. Make the right choice by opting for nutrient-rich foods like oats, fish, beans, walnuts, flax seeds, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, beetroot, etc. These foods will raise the Serotonin level in the body and curb the cravings.
Boost your immunity
Winter-time also makes us susceptible to catching a cold, flu, etc. Safeguard yourself from falling sick by boosting your immune system. Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, methi, etc), oranges, amla, turmeric, peppers, cabbage, carrot, purple grapes, pomogranate, etc are rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C and beta-carotene which help build a strong immune system to shield your body from germs.
Stock up on the sunshine vitamin
The deficiency of Vitamin D is the root cause of many health issues like osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension fatigue, depression, etc as well as low immunity. With less sunny hours in winter days, it is important to include Vitamin – D rich foods in like Orange Juice, Cereals, Milk, Yogurt, Eggs, water fish – Salmon, Tuna, etc. in your diet
Drink Up
As the temperature drops, so does our thirst. But, not drinking adequate amount of liquids can be a grave mistake as it not only leads to dehydration but the body also tends to confuse thirst for hunger and we end up eating more. Make sure you drink 10-12 glasses of liquids everyday but steer clear of sugary carbonated drinks.
Keep these tips in mind and keep your health on track this winter season.
NObesity Bariatric Centre also offers a list of low-calorie foods, so you can plan your weight loss program efficiently. For more assistance contact our diet experts.
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