YOU advice columnist Dr Louise has this advice for staying slim and warm this winter.
DON’T COMFORT EAT
Don’t use food to feel warm and loved. Soups and stews don’t have to be fatty to be filling.
DITCH THE SELF-PITY
You may be stuck indoors but don’t feel sorry for yourself or become isolated. Depression often results in overeating.
CHANGE YOUR ROUTINE
We settle into routines much faster in winter. This causes boredom, which can make us reach for all the wrong foods.
KEEP BUSY
Sitting in front of the TV is when the munchies start so visit friends or go to the movies.
EXERCISE
We tend to eat more in winter so we need to be more active. Skip or do stretches at home if it’s too cold to go to gym.
MONITOR YOUR MOOD
It’s easier to slip into clinical depression. Look out for symptoms such as lethargy and overeating.
WATCH YOUR WEIGHT
Try on summer clothes once a month. If they feel too tight put on some music and dance the weight away.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
-Treat yourself well. When the earth is cold and chilly winds blow we need to keep our spirits up by doing things that make us happy. Keep your thoughts positive and the winter cold won’t make you sad and miserable.
-Treat your partner well. Don’t let your winter blues cause you to lash out at your partner; you want to be able to snuggle during those wintry nights.
-Treat your body well. Stuffing it with things it doesn’t usually react well to such as sweets and fatty foods disturbs your metabolism and your mood.
