When the season shifts from summer to fall, and a chill sets in, it’s natural to want to eat comfort foods like savory pot roast, rich and creamy soups, and hearty dishes like chili, lasagna, and meatloaf and mashed potatoes. And while there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be comforted via food, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take advantage of a healthful winter diet that will help keep extra weight off during the winter season and provide nutritional benefits for a healthy body.
Here are some things to consider while you plan you winter diet:
Boost serotonin with high-quality carbohydrates. Serotonin is a feel-good chemical that is released from the brain. During winter serotonin levels are lower, and when serotonin levels are lower cravings set in, both good and bad. High-quality carbohydrates, like whole grains, pumpkins, squash, and sweet potatoes, are great choices.
Eat in-season produce. Eating in-season produce will provide you with more flavor and higher nutrition. Wonder what’s in-season during winter? Wonderful root vegetables and fruits: carrots, cranberries, pears, root vegetables (beet, carrot, leek, parsnip, potato, sweet potato, and turnip), oranges, pomegranates, and winter squash!
Get plenty of the sunshine vitamin—vitamin D! Because the sun shines less during winter, it’s important to make sure your body gets plenty of vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for bone health and muscle strength, and vitamin D helps our bodies keep healthy levels of calcium and phosphorus.