How to eat less in winter and fall, ways to combat increased appetite in the cold season

nutrition expert, founder of the GetVegetable nutrition delivery service

How not to overeat in fall and winter? Why do you want to eat more often in cold weather?

I’m sure you’ve noticed more than once that with the arrival of fall you want to eat more often, you have less control over your appetite, and your hands are always trying to grab something tasty. The fact is that in cold weather our body as if begins to heat us from the inside, speeding up metabolism. And vice versa – in the heat the metabolic rate is reduced, so we want to eat less often. This is necessary for the body to work properly and maintain a comfortable temperature. It is possible to maintain energy reserves with the help of food, because of this we feel hunger and visit the refrigerator more often – the brain gives signals to the body. And if you control yourself and do not eat as often as your brain asks you to, you start burning body fat.

Another reason why you constantly feel hungry in cold weather is the short daylight hours. At a genetic level it is laid down that during this period you need to go in search of food. Plus we often hear about the so-called “fall malaise” caused by a lack of joy hormones. All of this we snack on something tasty, sweet and quick.

Increased feelings of hunger can speak not only about accelerated metabolism, but also about possible diseases. For example, diabetes. If you eat the usual portions of food, but you are not full, and this continues for a long time, it is worth seeing a doctor. The feeling of satiety after a heavy lunch or dinner should last up to six hours.

Drink more tea
Herbal tea is good for helping the body survive the cold. Add mint or lemon to it. Cold drinks are best avoided during this period.

Add more spices
Properly chosen spices reduce appetite. You can add spices like ginger, chili pepper, cloves, cardamom, cumin, turmeric and cinnamon to your diet.

Give up gadgets at meals
Let your body get full – get your gadgets off the table and take what you eat seriously. Eating on the fly will make it seem like you haven’t eaten anything. And you will feel hungry again. Try to eat thoughtfully while enjoying your food.

Drink more beverages with fiber
If you love fresh juices or smoothies, it is also good to consume them during the cold season because of the high amount of fiber. Dietary fiber eliminates the feeling of hunger for a long time. Just don’t add ice to smoothies and juices.

Wear the right clothes
You should not forget about such a trivial rule as warm clothes during the cold season. Wear hats and scarves if the weather requires it.