Seasonal weight gain is a real thing, and it doesn’t just happen at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Weight gain “season” actually starts in the fall. Research identifies September as the second fattest month, with dieters gaining an average of two pounds.
What has September got to do with weight gain? As temperatures drop and there are fewer hours of daylight, we’re not outside as often. Plus, for many of us, life gets busier when the kids go back to school, leaving less time for healthy eating and exercise. All those fall factors, along with the return of comfort foods and an increased appetite, can cause stress to go up — and often, our eating along with it.
Winter is coming
Your body actually senses that colder weather is on its way and begins to prepare for it by storing fat. The body also knows it will soon have to work harder to stay warm, and you will feel hungrier.
Avoiding fall weight gain This year, avoid comforting yourself and feeding your stress with excess, unhealthy eating. September could be the right month for you to make an appointment with Alison Wellness Clinic to create a plan for a healthier fall, including the holidays. Call today for an appointment: 256-489-5748.
Keep fit, lose fat We will teach you that successful weight loss isn’t about eating nothing but spinach and kale. It’s never good to put your body (and mind) in a perpetual state of deprivation. When you avoid all your favorite foods all the time, you’re much more likely to reach for the sugar, bad fats and junk food.
Tip: some of the best weight-loss foods are packed with protein To successfully lose weight, your body needs all the nutrients that give you energy, stamina and strength, such as:
Protein
Healthy fats, like those found in olive oil and avocados
Vitamins
Minerals
Fiber
Nutritious foods can also help provide you with the mental conviction and will power to avoid chips, candy bars and burgers and instead, fill yourself up with foods that actually help you feel full, such as black beans, oatmeal, avocado and salmon.