9 foods to beat winter weight gain

Winter is the time you spend lying on the sofa, warm in bed, enjoying the seasonal parties, and more. It is also a time to enjoy delicious and varied food that causes weight gain .

It’s hard to resist food temptations in the colder months. But you are not alone. There is a science behind these cravings. The fats in your body keep you warm in cold weather, so your need to eat fatty foods increases. Additionally, you tend to sit and exercise less during these months. Thus, you burn fewer calories and eat more than you should. Knowing what your body craves during winter and how to fight it is key to losing weight .

Cold weather is a good time to take care of your diet. Eating the right foods keeps your body warm and ward off all the annoying winter illnesses. Stay fit by sticking to healthy food options and making smart alternatives to your regular food. Try these options to control weight gain.

Eat leafy and green vegetables

Like broccoli, spinach, and cabbage, among others, it is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Eating them in the winter keeps the digestive system healthy. It also provides you with energy, keeps you active, and your weight under control. Add vegetables to your plate instead of empty carbs and starches in your diet in cold weather. Try cooking to make green vegetables taste delicious.

Consume protein

A diet rich in protein helps keep you in shape in winter. According to a study conducted by the University of Washington, increasing the daily intake of protein to 3 0 percent of total calories, reduces calorie consumption by 4 4 0 calories. Eating a high-protein diet tricks your brain into thinking you ate more. With this feeling of fullness, you are less likely to have access to unhealthy, fried, or sugary snacks. Choose lean proteins over lean proteins.

Try flaxseed

Eating flaxseed is good for health. It is especially useful when you are trying to avoid gaining extra pounds. Flax seeds are high in fiber and nutrition due to their omega- 3 and lignin content , which help you stay thin and reduce your chances of developing certain diseases.

Eat potatoes

Potatoes have a bad reputation. It is a myth that eating this vegetable adds a lot of fats to the body. Potatoes keep bad cholesterol away by filling the body with essential nutrients. Instead of using fatty french fries, choose healthy cooking methods, such as boiling, grilling or baking. Take it with the skin for better results.

Consume carrots

Rich in nutrients and low in calories, carrots are a delicious and healthy food for those trying to monitor their weight. Carrots contain high levels of water and fiber, which keep hunger at bay and aid in proper digestion. When you’re craving something warm under the blanket, try a few slices of carrots with a low-fat dip like hummus or baba ghanoush, instead of a bag of potato chips.

Eat whole grains

Whole grains are good for your health at any time. But it is especially useful in the winter because it keeps your body warm and increases metabolism. Plan to eat a small bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, as it has health benefits and prevents fatigue and laziness. Add flavors like cinnamon or citrus to it.

Also, add barley, brown rice and quinoa to your diet to increase your overall consumption of healthy whole grains. Make black bean soup. Black beans are rich in copper and iron, which boost the immune system and are low in calories. There are no saturated fats to worry about (unlike canned soup). And the average serving will give you approximately 1 5 grams of fiber and protein – with the added benefit of keeping hunger pangs at bay.

Use ginger

This ginger, used in traditional Indian medicine, helps fight extreme cold and lethargy. Ginger keeps warm and provides a buffer for many common ailments. It is a natural antioxidant that supports a healthy digestive and immune system. Add ginger to your various salads and dishes, or take it as a hot drink (ginger tea). 

Add hot pepper

Who wouldn’t like to indulge in spicy food when sitting in front of the TV and craving warmth? The good news is that experts recommend eating hot peppers during the winter. Capsaicin in peppers boosts the metabolism and prevents fat accumulation. Moreover, the tomato and onion paste used to make the dish are natural antioxidants. However, do maintain the amount of meat you consume. Choose lower-fat alternatives to red meat if possible.

Get nuts

Do you feel hunger pangs between meals? Have a handful of your favorite nuts for a healthy snack. For more warmth and better taste, roast them first. The nuts keep you feeling full, which helps you avoid binging on unhealthy options. They are also a favorite in bar weather, especially the warm toasted varieties. Walnuts, almonds, peanuts, and cashews are all healthy, giving you plenty of variety. However, don’t overdo it because a handful of nuts are packed with calories but it’s better than a bag of potato chips.