Cold weather makes you feel hungry, why is that?

One little-known effect of cold weather on the body is that it stimulates our appetite and makes us eat more, making it more difficult to stick to a reasonable diet and possibly causing weight gain.

Why does cold weather increase appetite?

Our ancestors had to survive in harsh natural conditions. During the winter months, food was scarcer. Therefore, the body would be stimulated to eat more and store energy.

This survival mechanism still exists in modern humans. In fact, a study published in the journal Food Quality and Preference In 2022, it was discovered that even watching a video about winter can stimulate the viewer's taste buds.

However, this is not the only reason for increased appetite when the weather turns cold. In fact, colder days are also the time when many people are reluctant to go out, stay home more to avoid the cold, and also exercise less and participate in activities that burn a lot of calories.

Not only does staying at home more often cause us to burn fewer calories, but we also find ourselves in the kitchen and opening our pantries more often. When food is constantly in front of us, we tend to eat it. All of this combined can lead to weight gain.

The body regulates and balances energy intake like a thermostat, says University of Western Australia public health researcher Dr David Lawrence.

"When we increase our physical activity, it stimulates us to want to eat more. When we cut back on our energy intake, for example if we skip meals, we can feel more tired and lethargic because our body's energy expenditure is reduced. During the cold months, you may feel hungrier because your body needs to burn more energy to keep its temperature up," says Dr Lawrence.

Another reason for increased appetite in cold weather is hormonal changes. When it is cold, glucocorticoid hormone levels react more strongly and make us eat more.

In addition, Dr. Pierre Nys, a doctor at the Paris Endocrinology Hospital, France, said: "In winter, the body synthesizes less Vitamin D due to the lack of sunlight, which affects the regulation of the hormones serotonin and dopamine (neurotransmitters synthesized in the brain that make people feel happy and joyful). Therefore, the body compensates for serotonin and dopamine by eating favorite foods. This will stimulate appetite."

That is why, in winter everyone likes to eat hot, high-calorie foods. However, many people are concerned about gaining too much weight.

What to eat in winter to stay healthy and maintain weight?

Instead of high-carb, high-fat foods, go for foods high in protein and fiber, both of which help you feel satisfied after eating and can keep hunger at bay for longer. Nutritionists recommend beans and legumes for plant-based protein and fiber, plus some lean protein like chicken or beef.

It’s natural to eat more carb-rich foods in the winter , as carbs give us a boost of energy and can help combat the winter slump. If you’re craving carbs, stick to whole grains. People should also eat potatoes and sweet potatoes, which are delicious but high in fiber and nutrients.

By adding more vegetables to your diet, you can eat more food to satisfy your hunger without consuming too many calories. Always eat a variety of fruits and vegetables of different colors to provide different nutrients, they not only satisfy your hunger but also keep your immune system strong enough to fight off winter colds. Also, remember to stay physically active and exercise regularly.

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