How to Stay Healthy This Winter
By Sara Butler
Winter is coming, and that means you’re probably craving carbohydrates such as potatoes, pasta, and pastries right about now. After all, it’s not like swimsuit season is going to be here anytime soon, so why not give into those cravings –right? Not so fast! Loading up on carbohydrates this winter can do more than impact your waistline; it can tank your mood, too. Here are some of the ways winter sabotages your health and how you can avoid them!
You Don’t Go Outside
Your motivation to get moving can take a real hit when it’s really cold outside. Once home after school or work, it can be very difficult to go outside again to get your workout in – or to get up out of your cozy and warm bed to exercise in the morning.
If you find you’re not logging as many workouts when it’s cold out, you need to make more of an effort to get to the gym. In the winter, you’re probably getting less movement in your day overall, since you may not be outside gardening or taking the dog on long walks. Instead, it’s Netflix and chill when you get home at night. That needs to serve as an inspiration to help get you up and get you moving. Do small things such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking in place for a few minutes as you watch television or cook dinner. Better yet, force yourself to go outside, even if it’s just for a little while.
The Call of Party Food
Winter is a party season and all those rich treats and frosty libations can be hard to resist. Between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day, think about all the temptations you face! You must find a way to balance your calorie intake throughout the week in order to help you maintain a healthy weight. If you constantly treat yourself, you’ll pay for it by packing on a few pounds that can be tough to shed once the spring rolls around.
Plan ahead for gatherings. Don’t go hungry; make sure to have a healthy meal or snack before you go. And have very small amounts of the things you want most once you do go to the party. Load up on fresh fruits and vegetables and go for lean protein, which will help you stay fuller for longer.
You can make it through this winter to come out even healthier in spring!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenwood Village, Colo.