Most of us eat way too much between Christmas and New Years.  Then comes January 2, and you’re afraid to step on the scale.  Did you know the average person gains at least a pound over the holidays?  But it doesn’t stop there.  Most add another pound or two until spring arrives.   That first week in January, when the temperatures plunge, you’re apt to wake up feeling much more hungry than usual.  You wonder if your blood sugar is too low or too high, or what’s up?  Watch out for the cold weather  hungries!

It’s a known fact that cold weather makes us hungry.  Our body needs fuel to stay warm.  As a result, you’re liable to gain weight during the winter months.   How are we going to handle those hunger pangs?

First off, don’t bother counting calories. Start with techniques learned during meditation.  Hunger is a physical sensation, but there’s an emotional component. Hunger makes us throw caution to the winds, and gobble down much bigger portions of whatever meal we’re partaking. Try this: When you feel hungry, stop and think.  Take a few deep breaths.  Identify your feelings.    Yes, I am  hungrier than usual because it’s cold. But that doesn’t mean I need another  piece of toast or an extra bowl of cereal at breakfast.  Lunch at McDonalds?  No, I won’t order a big batch of fries.     A plain hamburger and a glass of milk  will fill my  stomach very nicely.   Eat slowly; don’t increase your intake and  portion sizes just because the cold weather makes you hungry.

In addition, cold weather can make you feel sluggish.  The thought of going outside for a walk or running errands is unappealing.  You would rather sit by the fire and read a book  Or take an extra long nap.     Encourage  yourself to keep going at the same pace as if it were nice and warm outside.  When  it’s below freezing, and too cold to go outdoors, do something to take your mind off food.  Time flies  when you’re working on a jigsaw puzzle.   Get creative: sew, knit, or crochet.  Paint your bedroom. Rearrange the furniture

If your tummy still has yearnings, sip a warm cup of  herbal tea.  Munch on an apple or a handful of almonds.  Try out a new vegan recipe.

Watch out for cold weather hungries!