Best weight loss tips for winter to try every day

The holiday season is all about family and indulging in sumptuous food, however, after that, most of us struggle to burn all those excess calories. Weight loss becomes even more difficult during the winter months and even the strong-willed end up reaching for comfort food. During these chilly months, there is a natural slowdown in physical activity, making it challenging to stay on track with weight loss goals. The colder weather can trigger cravings for comfort foods and also reduce outdoor exercise, but with mindful daily habits, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some

weight loss tips

for winter.
Plan ahead

During the winter months, staying on track is quite a challenge. One of the most effective ways to stay on track with your weight loss goals during winter is to plan your meals and snacks in advance. It is easy to fall for comforting drinks such as hot chocolate, or unhealthy snacks out of convenience. But, planning and preparing your meals in advance will help you to resist the temptation. Set aside time each week to prepare nutritious meals, whether it’s batch-cooking soups, stews, or grilled vegetables, or portioning out ingredients for easy-to-make dishes. Also, keep a stash of pre-portioned snacks like roasted nuts, hummus with cut vegetables, or fruit ready to grab when hunger strikes.

Keep the soups pouring
If you are a soup person (or even not), this is the perfect time to indulge in some hearty soups. Soups are best for weight loss, particularly during the winter, as they are low in calories, hydrating, and packed with fiber and nutrients. The high water content will keep you full, and satisfied with fewer calories, and the warmth can be comforting during the chilly weather. Opt for high-fiber vegetables like spinach, kale, and carrots which aid digestion, regulate blood sugar, and curb overeating by promoting a sense of fullness. You can incorporate protein by adding lentils, chicken, or tofu. A chicken and spinach soup is a perfect blend of lean protein with nutrient-rich greens and would make a hearty meal without sabotaging your weight loss goals. Pumpkin soup is another option for those who love to have a natural sweetness in the soup.

Satisfy your cravings with healthier options

The chilly weather makes you crave snacks and often unhealthy ones. Does that mean you don’t satisfy your cravings? Not really. Instead of calorie-dense unhealthy treats, opt for nutrient-packed versions. For instance, swap out regular fries with baked sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy option, without compromising texture or taste. Make a batch of roasted chickpeas in the oven. Chickpeas are crunchy, high in fiber, and a great source of plant-based protein. You can also experiment by seasoning them with herbs and spices like rosemary, garlic, and paprika to enhance the flavor without making them calorie-dense. Edamame is a protein-rich snack, that is both filling and low in calories. The high fiber content will also aid weight loss.
Balanced diet

Focus on eating a nutritious and balanced diet is crucial for your weight loss diet. Include sweet potatoes, and carrots, rich in vitamins and fiber for hearty soups. Whole grains like quinoa and oats are good for energy, while healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, and avocados help regulate body temperature. Also, include citrus fruits, which is rich vitamin C to boost immunity, and dark leafy greens like kale, which offer vital nutrients. You can also incorporate herbal teas for better digestion.

Move even though you want to curl up
It’s winter, and, let’s be real – we all love to curl up in bed all day. But that does not align well with your fitness goals. Staying active is crucial for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Movement will help to boost circulation, regulate body temperature, and combat the sluggishness that often comes with the season. Walk whenever possible. Also incorporate indoor workouts like yoga, pilates, or bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, and push-ups, which you can easily do at home.
(Pic courtesy: iStock)