Have you ever noticed why the number on weighing scale goes up during the grey months? If yes, then this is something you don’t face alone!
While there are no studies that have proven any biological reason behind the winter weight gain, the reason could vary from person to person.
According to a study, many people tend to gain three to five kilos during winters. Result? All the hard work to maintain ideal weight goes in vain!
To avoid gaining extra kilos, we must know the reasons why it is in winter we tend to gain extra kilos. Some of which are as follows..
1. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
This is a type of depression that is related to seasonal changes. It affects our mood and takes a toll on our energy levels. As during the winter season, there is lack of sunlight which not only affects our mood but also our health. This might also lower our urge to work out or hit the gym, resulting in weight gain.
2. Cold weather
One of the main reasons that drop our will to maintain an ideal weight is the cold weather. Instead of hitting the gyms, we prefer to curl up and stay indoors. Indeed, it’s not easy to stay active when it’s freezing outside. But a strong determination can enforce your will to stay healthy and fit.
3. Longer nights
Longer nights mean more sleep and more sleep means feeling sluggish all through the day. The more you sleep, the greater it will impact your body cycle, which could make you lethargic. This also impacts your work out regime.
4. Urge to eat comforting foods
Winters not only bring longer nights but also heavier and warmer foods. Eating these foods increases our body temperature and raises our urge to eat more. While seasonal foods are healthier, eating them in limit is always a wise decision.
5. We tend to eat more
During winter, our biological system increases our urge to eat more. Many researches have proven that it’s a natural tendency to eat more during the cold weather. So, before binging, do not forget to face the consequences.
6. Increases metabolism
This may sound healthy but a sudden increase in metabolism results in weight gain instead of cutting fat. As per a study, when our metabolism increases, it tries to burn more energy to help us stay warm. This might increase our hunger, making us eat more food.