As winter rolls in, many of us find ourselves constantly reaching for snacks, craving warm, hearty meals, and just feeling a little hungrier than usual. You’re not imagining it – there’s actually a good reason why cold weather can trigger these extra cravings.

1. Your Body’s Natural Need for Warmth

One of the main reasons we feel hungrier when it’s cold is that our bodies need more energy to keep warm. When temperatures drop, our bodies work harder to maintain a cosy internal temperature. This can mean burning through more calories to generate warmth, which may trigger the brain to say, “Hey, time to eat!”

This need for warmth is part of our biology – a little survival trick passed down from our ancestors. Long ago, food wasn’t as easily available, so our bodies adapted to store extra energy during winter months when food might have been scarce. Eating a bit more was a way to stock up for the leaner times.

2. Shorter Days and Less Sunlight

When winter arrives, we get fewer hours of daylight, which can affect our mood and appetite. The lack of sunlight can mess with our body’s internal clock (or circadian rhythm), disrupting hormone levels. Specifically, it can lower our levels of serotonin, a feel-good hormone that’s also involved in appetite regulation. This drop in serotonin can lead to cravings for foods that boost its production, like carbs and sugary snacks.

At the same time, the shorter days can make us feel sluggish and low on energy, tempting us to look for a quick pick-me-up in the form of food. But remember, it’s not just a craving – it’s your brain’s way of saying, “I need a mood boost!”

3. Comfort Food and Cosiness

There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, hearty meals in winter. Stews, soups, roasts, and creamy dishes are all foods that make us feel cosy and satisfied. We crave these meals not only for their warmth but also for the nostalgia and comfort they bring. These foods might remind us of cosy winter evenings and family gatherings, giving us a sense of contentment we’re after in the chilly months.

And let’s face it – when it’s cold, salads just don’t hit the same! Our body naturally wants something warm and filling to help balance out the biting cold outside.

4. Staying Indoors and Getting Less Activity

In the summer, we’re often more active – taking walks, going to the park, or just generally moving more. But winter weather can keep more of us indoors, and we might find ourselves lounging around more than usual. When we’re less active, our minds may wander towards food out of habit or boredom rather than true hunger.

When you’re spending a lot of time indoors, it’s easy to keep wandering over to the kitchen, opening the fridge, and looking for something to snack on. Staying active in winter, even if it’s just a short walk or some stretches, can help curb these cravings and keep your mind off food.

5. Hormones and Winter Weight Gain

Research suggests that cold weather can increase levels of a hormone called ghrelin, also known as the “hunger hormone.” Ghrelin stimulates appetite, so higher levels may make you feel hungrier. Some scientists believe this is another survival mechanism – an evolutionary nudge to eat more in winter, when food was once harder to come by.

On top of that, we also produce more melatonin in winter because of the darker days. Melatonin can make us feel sleepier and sometimes hungrier, which could explain why you might feel like hibernating with a big bowl of something comforting!

6. The Festive Season and Celebratory Eating

Winter also brings festive celebrations – Christmas, New Year’s, and other holidays filled with family gatherings, parties, and delicious feasts. During this season, food plays a central role in socialising and celebration, making it hard to avoid extra treats. From mince pies and mulled wine to chocolates and festive roasts, there’s no shortage of temptations around every corner.

Not only are these foods readily available, but we often feel more inclined to indulge as part of the festive spirit. It’s a time of joy and relaxation, and that can mean being a bit more lenient with what we eat. Plus, sharing a meal or enjoying a special treat with loved ones brings a sense of togetherness that’s especially comforting in winter.

While enjoying these festive foods is part of the season’s charm, it can be helpful to strike a balance. Savour your favourites, but perhaps consider portion sizes or mix in lighter, healthier options when you can. After all, a little bit of indulgence is all part of the winter experience!

How to Handle Winter Hunger Without Overindulging

While it’s natural to feel hungrier in winter, there are ways to manage those cravings without overdoing it:

Choose Warming, Nutritious Meals: Opt for nutrient-dense foods that will keep you full for longer. Soups, stews, and casseroles made with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are ideal. They’re comforting without being heavy on calories.
Stay Active Indoors: It’s harder to get out, but even a little activity can go a long way in boosting your mood and keeping cravings at bay. Try some at-home workouts, yoga, or even a quick dance session!
Focus on Protein and Fibre: Foods high in protein and fibre take longer to digest, which means you’ll stay full for longer. Add beans, lentils, chicken, or fish to your meals, and make sure you’re getting plenty of vegetables.
Give Yourself Some Wiggle Room: Winter is a time of celebration and comfort, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Allow yourself to enjoy the season’s flavours, but balance treats with healthier options.