Losing Weight in the Fall and Winter Months

Winter Weight Loss Becomes Difficult

Starting in the Fall

As the weather turns cooler, it becomes more and more difficult to lose weight.  This is because our bodies naturally want to stay indoors when it is cold outside.  Winter weight loss becomes more difficult as it turns cooler. Johns Hopkins University states that the average American adds 5-7 pounds during the Winter Months. 

 

Why do we Gain Weight in the Fall and Winter?

Science. One of the main culprits of weight gain is Vitamin D deficiency during the winter and fall months. We tend to be outdoors a lot during the spring and summer, but during this time period, we tend to huddle around the TV staying warm. Our chief source of Vitamin D is the sun, which we lack during the colder months. Dietitian Jeremy Mullins suggests 5000 IUs a day supplemented of Vitamin D.

We are less active during the fall and winter months. When you are less active, you burn less calories. These calories create fat deposits that add to our weight. We also tend to eat more, and not quality food. Some studies show it may be in our DNA to eat more during the winter months.

 

How do we Not Gain Weight in the Fall and Winter Months?

1. Plan all Meals

You have to plan every meal if you don’t want to go weight. This will keep you from getting a high calorie lunch with co-workers, or be tempted by cookies baked by a coworker. If you have your meals planned out, you know how many calories you are allowing yourself to have each day. Allow yourself a cheat meal or two during the week, but be strict on yourself!


2. Drink Plenty of Water

Water keeps you full, helps increase metabolism, and flushes out toxins. Water couldn’t be better for you during this time of year. Strive to drink over 100 ounces of water a day, and at least once glass 30 minutes before each meal.


3. Hold Weight Loss Competitions with Coworkers and Friends

Weight loss competitions are great motivating tools for you and your friends. A $5.00 each pot to see who can lose the most weight can keep people accountable during these months.


4. Supplements

You can lose weight without supplements, however winter weight loss can be difficult. If you feel like you are having some issues, or you are plateauing, here are a few suggestions:


5. Join a Gym or Take Fitness Classes

Taking fitness classes or joining a gym can help with the weight loss blues of the winter months. Taking classes or hitting the gym 3-5 times a week will help curb weight gain. Remember that weight loss is 90% nutrition and that working out will only do so much.

 

Thank you for reading about Winter Weight Loss,

 

Dustin Holston

Sports Nutritionist and Personal Trainer

Free Workouts

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