The cold winter days are just around the corner! Although it may be tempting to stay indoors where it is warm and cozy, hibernation is not for us. In fact, the long winter months are the best time to develop and maintain healthy habits.
One of the greatest winter challenges is staying physically active. Daily activity reduces the risks of heart disease, aids in maintaining a healthy weight and improves overall mental well-being. Even if the temperatures are chilly, step out of the house when the sun’s out. Sunlight can improve your mood and lower stress. You may even receive a little vitamin D as an added benefit.
Getting outside is easier than you think. Go out for a walk or snowshoe on your favorite trail. If you have kids or pets, bring them outside and explore your backyard, go to a winter farmers market or visit your favorite sledding hill. Ice skating is a great outdoor winter activity — so is shoveling your driveway, if you’re feeling really motivated. And if it’s just too cold to go outside, ask a friend to join you for a yoga or spin class.
You can also establish healthy habits at home. Explore your creative side in the kitchen by making homemade soups and crockpot dishes. Homemade soups are a good way to include more vegetables in your diet, which will increase your fiber, vitamin and mineral intake. Simple, nutritious crockpot meals will keep you warm and nourished on days when you think winter has got you beat. Cozy weekends at home are also good for preparing meals. Prepare two or three days worth of meals and snacks, such as casseroles, homemade granola and freezer smoothie bags. Watch out for hot chocolates and sugary lattes. Switch to herbal teas sweetened with a small teaspoon of honey or a splash of milk. These healthy alternatives will encourage you to eat at home — a great way to maintain a healthy weight and save money.
Lastly, remember to consume plenty of foods that contain vitamin D. Your body’s vitamin D levels are lower in the winter due to the sun’s weak rays and minimal skin exposure while outdoors. Although our bodies have the ability to store vitamin D for a length of time, keep up your intake. Choose salmon and other fatty fish as a protein source. Drink milk, non-dairy milks, orange juice and other beverages with vitamin D. Include mushrooms, egg yolks and yogurts in your diet.
Follow these easy tips and you can avoid the winter blues — and winter weight gain — when the snow starts to fall!
