Losing weight can seem harder when it's cold outside. Actually, the winter is the best time to commit to weight loss! Here’s why winter weight loss works - and how you can use this season to transform your health.
Americans gain an average of 5-10 pounds between November and January. Yikes! The holidays with all those treats don't help. Neither does getting less active when it’s cold out.
Starting a weight loss plan now lets you avoid that. Instead of gaining weight this winter, you'll end up lighter and healthier when spring rolls around. Now that's something to celebrate!
Summer and fall have tons of parties, family gatherings, and nights out to eat. It can torpedo your diet!
But many social events die down when it gets colder. You can focus on healthy habits instead of struggling through tempting potlucks and restaurant outings. Remove those obstacles and weight loss gets way simpler.
Winter makes everyone feel sluggish. Shorter daylight hours mess with your circadian rhythm, leaving you drained. Additionally, many people suffer from seasonal blues when it’s cold and dreary out.
But shedding excess pounds reverses that winter fatigue. Getting healthier puts a pep back in your step within weeks. That makes it easier to stay active and positive all season long. Take advantage of this built-in energy boost that comes with losing weight!
Warm, comforting foods help the winter blahs. Luckily, most winter favorites are diet-friendly. Think vegetable soup, turkey chili, oatmeal, and herbal tea. You can enjoy those without guilt while slimming down.
Ditch the hot chocolate or heavy casseroles at dinner time. Stick to broth-based, veggie-packed winter treats instead. They'll keep you satisfied without derailing your weight loss progress.
Looking slimmer by next holiday season is a great motivation. Avoid the usual winter weight gain, and that New Year’s dress will look fabulous on you!
Focus on the long game. Imagine how incredible the year's family photos and holiday parties will feel after reaching your goals. Use that vision to stay committed to winter weight loss now.
Don't let winter weather stop you from working out. There are plenty of ways to be active even when there's snow falling:
Mall walk - Drive to the mall and get your steps in. Bring your phone or music to stay occupied.
At-home strength workouts - Bodyweight moves, resistance bands, and simple equipment give an effective home workout.
Online virtual classes - Use free or inexpensive streamed fitness routines with yoga, cardio kickboxing or bodyweight toning options.
Bundle up and head outdoors! - Gear up in layers, hats, waterproof shoes and get moving. The fresh air will re-energize you.
Lack of daylight and cold temps can lead to restless nights during winter. But regular exercise helps you sleep more soundly no matter the weather or season.
Aim for 30-60 minutes of movement daily. Along with supporting weight loss, it’ll lead to higher quality sleep. That makes it easier to avoid emotional winter eating from fatigue or stress.
Let's be honest - the cold weather means more layers of clothing. So if you feel self-conscious about certain body parts, winter offers relief. You can hide spots that make you feel insecure while actively working to change them.
Looser, flowing fabrics also conceal flaw rather than emphasize them. Take advantage of the colder temperatures and bulkier fashions this season to quietly tackle trouble zones. No one else has to know!
Ever notice it takes more energy to complete the same workout when temperatures drop? That's because wintery weather causes your metabolism to rev up. Your body works harder warming and re-warming itself in the cold.
Revel in this built-in calorie burn, and use it to lose faster! The scale will budge quicker thanks to your already-activated metabolism. Hello winter weight loss boost!
And if you're looking for additional support on your journey, the medical weight loss professionals at PrimeHealthMD can help. Most major insurance plans cover our customized programs. Contact us today to learn more and get started shedding pounds this winter!
