Many people notice an increase in their appetite in winter. Cooler temperatures can lead to hungry Like a Wolfand lead to snacks frequent. Have you noticed that you tend to eat more when it’s cold? Don’t worry, there are explanations to this phenomenon. We will explore the reasons why the cold can make you want to eat more and discover how deal with those cravings.
The physiological and psychological reasons for increased hunger
This increased hunger has causes physiological And psychological. Indeed, the body needs more calories to maintain its temperature in cold weather. To alleviate this extra expensehe can send a hunger signal to get additional sources energy. This may explain why we often crave comfort foods and calories in winter ! You have surely noticed that it is quite rare to dream of a carrot salad when the temperatures are freezing…
In addition to physiological reactions, the cold can also affect our emotions. This can lead to an increase in appetite. Research conducted by cornell university have shown that people living in colder climates may be more exposed to depression, anxiety and stress.
An evolutionary adaptation
The reason behind this trend is the lack of sun. Emotional distress can cause people to seek out food as a source of comfort. When we are depressed, we tend to eat more. It is therefore essential to monitor their eating habits during the winter months and find other ways to manage stress.
Finally, a final explanation for increased hunger in winter has to do with an evolutionary adaptation called “hibernation compulsion“. This results in an instinctive desire to gain weight in late fall in response to reduction in hours of light and to temperature changes. This evolving signal may prompt some people to eat larger amounts of foods high in carbohydrates and fats to prepare for an eventual period of hibernation (which is very rare today).
Also read:
Dealing with this excessive appetite without gaining weight
But how to deal with this phenomenon and avoid unnecessary pounds? First, hold a healthy eating routine. Focus on nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins. Born do not skip meals. Don’t starve yourself, but make good food choices to meet your body’s needs without gaining weight.
Furthermore, practicing a regular physical activity can help burn extra calories and maintain a healthy weight. Activities that do not require moving outside, such as yoga or meditation, can also reduce anxiety.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings