It can become all too easy to hibernate in the cooler months and let our diet and exercise regimes fly out the window – indeed, avoiding mugs of hot chocolate and stodgy comfort food is easier said than done!
But there are some simple ways to forgo high-fat temptations and turn to nutritious options instead. You’ll not only feel healthier but it will give you more energy – perfect for those brisk winter walks.
1. Less is more
It is not uncommon to put on weight during winter – more food, heavier meals – so it’s time to make healthier choices. By eating smaller meals more often, you will boost your metabolism and help clean up your diet.
2. Get colourful
One of the best ways to lighten your diet is to add vibrant colours to your meals. Indulge in fresh fruits and veggies in a wide variety of colours. Choosing berries, melons and leafy greens to mix into your balanced meal will increase your intake of essential vitamins and antioxidants, helps prevent disease and will also increase energy levels.
3. Keep snacking
A successful diet is not about cutting back on food, it’s about eating sensibly throughout the day so you’re not starving at the end of it. Eat five small meals every day including some healthy snacks such as almonds or walnuts and some fruit.
4. Fresh is best
The secret to a flavourful and healing diet is to emphasise foods that are as fresh as possible. Autumn’s offerings include new-season apples, rhubarbs, pears, quince, Asian greens, spinach, pumpkin and nuts.
5. Detoxify
The liver, the body’s main organ for detoxifying all the toxins we accumulate, needs to be especially supported during the cooler months due to a decrease in physical activity and an increase in dietary factors. Antioxidant-rich vegetables and adequate protein are needed for the removal of toxins from the system and enhance the detox process. They’ll also help your immune system to ward off colds and flus.
6. Keep meals simple
Steer away from complicated recipes and enjoy the merit of simplicity. By using just a few fresh or seasonal foods and no processed foods, easy, uncomplicated dishes take on the taste of gourmet.
7. Hydration, hydration, hydration
Make a concentrated effort to drink plain water often throughout the day, especially between meals. We need even more water when the body is flushing out excess toxins. Alcohol, hot drinks and juices don’t satisfy the body’s need for water: instead, they stress blood sugar and liver function and lead to weight gain.
8. Get moving
Avoid piling on the pounds and stick to a fitness plan. If you find you’re slow on giving up some of your dietary indulgences, try making your way to the gym a couple more times a week. Regular exercise will motivate you to eat healthier so you’re not working out for nothing.
