Posted on October 02, 2014 by Kate Halsall

Isn’t it strange how dark mornings and dark nights affect not only our mood, but also what we chose to eat? It seems that we too get a sense of hibernation and not only do we want to stay indoors with the heating on, but we also automatically reach for high carb, high calorie and high fat comfort foods which in truth are only going to fatten us up for winter! Studies have shown that the average person gains 1-2 lbs during the winter months. Halloween, Bonfire Night, Thanks Giving and Christmas – these celebrations don’t help either, as we’ll be surrounded by all the unhealthy foods imaginable. How can you avoid this winter comfort food? Don’t worry, here are the motive8 personal training teams top tips!

Be Prepared. The good old scout motto. One thing we’re a big advocate of here at Motive8 is food planning and preparation. It’s a way to ensure that we’re in control of our diet. Stock up on your healthy staples, plan your weeks food, cook in batches

Get Spicy! Not only are spicy foods good for you (chillies afterall are supposed to help speed up your metabolism), but they are also warming foods. So home made chilli, curry and spicy soups

Stay Active. There’s a lot of research on exercise and how it affects our mood. When the weather starts to change and daylight gets shorter, it’s hard to train outside. But staying inside and not exercising will only lead you to temptation. If you can stick to your training regime, it only makes sense that you will also stick to your eating regime.

Don’t Go Out Hungry. Winter means Christmas which means parties. If you go to a party hungry, you are more likely to eat some of the less healthy food choices on offer.

Most of all we need will power. You’ve been healthy through the summer months, you’ve just got to keep it going. Remember, Winter means soup, not chips!

Further Reading
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/control-your-winter-appetite