Winter is the time when we have colder weather (at least in Northern Hemisphere, that is), festive season, cheesy movies coming out and great food. So, it’s not surprising that a lot of people expect to gain weight and lead a more sedentary lifestyle. Gaining weight is considered normal since people move around less when it’s colder, and prefer to spend time indoors eating snacks and watching TV. Even though that seems like an ultimate fun, it’s not the healthiest option. For that reason, here are some tips that will help you change your winter diet for better:

1. Find healthy substitutes for your favorite snacks

Sweet cravings are something that many people face, especially during the winter when it’s normal to experience lower energy levels and more fatigue. After all, there’s nothing more satisfying than enjoying a rich, creamy milk chocolate bar after a long day at work. Still, no matter how tasty they might be, foods containing refined sugars aren’t the best choice, especially to those who are at risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it’s much healthier to make your own desserts out of fruits, both fresh and dried, honey, nuts, dark chocolate, and skimmed milk. Eating healthy replacements might not be the same as eating overly processed candies and biscuits, but after you get used to the magnificent taste you’ll never look at the ordinary sweets again!

2. Soups are the way to be

Eating a healthy diet should always consist of a bit of everything because moderation is the key to a happy and healthy life. Since winter is also a time when seasonal cold strikes, it’s important to keep yourself safe. Soups and stews are always a healthy option, mainly since they’re usually full of vegetables and healthy spices. Also, due to their liquid texture, they can be a great aid to combating digestive issues, such as constipation. Sometimes, a soup with a piece of healthy rye bread can be eaten as a full meal, especially during the days when we don’t feel like eating much.

3. Don’t forget the importance of supplements

Despite the healthy diet, sometimes we need some vitamins and supplements to strengthen the immune system and feel better during the cold winter days. Vitamin C is a staple supplement, whether it’s taken in the form of tablets or seasonal fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit. Aside from that, taking organic spirulina powder will provide you with enough amino-acids and minerals and vitamins. Other supplements that you should incorporate int your daily routine are magnesium, vitamin D3, zinc, elderberry, and vitamin B complex. Additionally, eating more fruits and vegetables will provide you with enough strength to endure winter and feel fit, healthy and energized to wake up every morning.

4. Make sure to stay hydrated

This advice is usually mentioned for summer when the heat gets almost unbearable, but did you know that winter isn’t the reason to neglect liquid consumption? Drinking enough fluids will keep you warm and energetic, which is crucial since winter is when people mostly feel tired and dull. Drinking nutritious and fiber-rich smoothies in the morning is a great way to start your day. Also, having a water bottle near you is a sound choice, especially if you need to take a sip but you don’t feel like drinking a full glass. If you exercise, then you already know the importance of staying hydrated and wearing layered clothes, because sweat is known to reduce body temperature. Since winter is the time when people eat more, it’s important to eat food that isn’t too greasy, salted or heavy on the stomach. And if you happen to indulge yourself in such a meal, then you should soothe your digestion by drinking a lukewarm herbal brew, such as mint, chamomile or green tea.

Bottom line

Maybe you feel like staying indoors and eating sweets and snacks, but keep in mind that a balanced diet is a way to go. Feel free to treat yourself once in a while, but don’t forget to build a consistent and healthy diet, so you won’t have to deal with digestive problems and unnecessary weight gain. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with various (and preferably healthy) recipes as that’s the easiest way to eat well and feel full and accomplished.