Winter Cravings

Do you feel hungrier, snack more frequently and reach for carbohydrate rich foods when it’s cold outside?

You are not alone - Studies suggest that as the days grow shorter and colder there is a tendency to consume more calories and many people find that they are at their heaviest during the winter.

Here are some tips that will help to keep you healthy:

INCLUDE PROTEIN

Eating protein with every meal will keep you full so you are less likely to snack in between meals. Sources like oily fish and nuts and seeds contain omega 3 fats which are good for our brain and mood too!

EAT NUTRIENT DENSE COMFORT FOODS

A bowl of homemade soup or a delicious casserole or a meaty stew are all comforting dishes that will leave you feeling satiated but are also packed full of nutrients.

WARM SALADS

The crispy rainbow salads that you ate through the summer probably are not very appealing on a cold day so choose a warm salad instead! Roast some vegetables, leeks, courgettes, squash and serve with grilled halloumi or try some stir fried kale, chilli and prawns.

HEALTHY OPTIONS

If you are desperate for something sweet choose a healthy version! Stewed apples and Greek yoghurt, a fruit crumble with a topping of nuts and oats, black bean brownie (tastes great warmed with some walnuts), a bowl of porridge with nuts and seeds.

WARM DRINK

Avoid the syrup filled latte and choose a homemade ginger tea, or warm almond milk with cacao and turmeric

GO OUTSIDE

Try and walk around outside whatever the weather! Wrap up warm and get some natural light exposure -  it will lift your mood!

EXERCISE

Don’t stop moving! It is so tempting to curl up with a book in front of the fire but exercise can boost your mood and building muscles will help you to burn those excess calories. If the weather is truly dreadful look for an indoor class in your local leisure centre or community centre.