Why Does Weight Gain Happen in Winter? Expert Explains Causes and Control Tips Weight gain is a common concern as winter approaches. Dr. Anurag Aggarwal explains that dietary changes and reduced physical activity are the primary reasons, which can be managed with a balanced lifestyle. As soon as the winter season begins, many people notice an increase in their body weight. People start adopting various methods to keep their weight under control during the cold months. However, have you ever wondered why weight starts creeping up right when winter sets in. Dr. Anurag Aggarwal, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Fortis Healthcare, has shared insights into why weight increases during winter and how to manage it effectively. Primary Reasons Behind Winter Weight Gain According to medical experts, several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including dietary habits, reduced physical activities, and alterations in daily routines. During the cold season, consumption of warm and high-calorie foods tends to increase, while the regularity of outdoor walks and exercise routines often drops. As a result, the body accumulates more calories than it burns, which gradually leads to weight gain over time. Impact of Metabolism and Daily Routine Shorter days and reduced sunlight in winter can also disrupt sleep patterns and daily schedules. However, a sluggish metabolism solely due to the cold is not the main driver of weight gain. The primary culprit is the imbalance between food intake and physical activity. Maintaining a balanced diet is essential to keeping weight in check. Dietary Adjustments for Better Control Seasonal vegetables, fresh fruits, lentils, whole grains, and protein-rich foods should form a regular part of daily meals. At the same time, the intake of fried foods, sweets, and sugary beverages should be strictly limited. Since the sensation of thirst often decreases during cold weather, paying attention to adequate water intake is equally important. Physical Activity and Health Risks Integrating physical movement into the daily routine remains vital. Walking during favorable morning or afternoon hours, exercising at home, and avoiding prolonged sitting can significantly aid in weight management. Getting sufficient sleep is also crucial. Excessive weight gain can elevate the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, weight gain should not be dismissed as a mere seasonal side effect. If weight increases abruptly or is accompanied by fatigue, swelling in the feet, or shortness of breath, consulting a doctor is strongly recommended. A balanced diet and regular activity are the best ways to maintain a healthy weight during winter. What this means for you The issue of weight gain during the winter season directly impacts people's overall health, daily productivity, and long-term disease risks. • Across India: People across the country experience weight gain during winter due to dietary shifts and physical inactivity, which raises the future risk of lifestyle diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. • Daily Nutrition: The tendency to consume fried foods and sweets increases during this season, which can be managed by incorporating seasonal vegetables and protein-rich foods into meals. • Physical Activity: Cold weather often discourages outdoor exercise and walking, making indoor workouts and avoiding prolonged sitting crucial for maintaining fitness. • Hydration and Sleep: Reduced water intake in winter can lead to dehydration, while inadequate sleep can negatively affect metabolic functions. • Medical Consultation: If rapid weight gain is accompanied by persistent fatigue, swelling in the feet, or shortness of breath, individuals should consult a healthcare professional immediately. Why this happened The process of gaining weight during winter does not happen overnight; rather, it is driven by several physiological and environmental factors that alter diet and lifestyle habits. • Dietary Choices: In cold weather, people unconsciously tend to consume calorie-dense and fatty foods to generate internal body warmth. • Reduced Physical Exertion: Lower outdoor temperatures discourage stepping out, leading to a drop in walking and workout routines, which reduces overall calorie expenditure. • Environmental Factors: Shorter days, longer nights, and reduced sunlight exposure during winter alter mood, sleep patterns, and daily routines, impacting energy balance. Questions & Answers 1. Why does weight start increasing in winter? Weight increases in winter due to the consumption of high-calorie foods and a decrease in physical activities, leading to excess calorie accumulation. 2. Who provided these insights? These insights were shared by Dr. Anurag Aggarwal, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Fortis Healthcare. 3. Does a slow metabolism solely due to cold cause weight gain? No, a sluggish metabolism solely due to the cold is not the primary cause; rather, the imbalance between diet and physical activity is the main reason. 4. What should be included in the diet to control weight? Seasonal vegetables, fruits, lentils, whole grains, and protein-rich foods should be included in the diet. 5. What items should be limited in consumption? Consumption of fried foods, sweets, and high-sugar beverages should be limited. 6. What health risks can arise from excessive weight gain? Excessive weight gain can increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. 7. When should one consult a doctor? A doctor should be consulted if weight increases abruptly or is accompanied by fatigue, swelling in the feet, or shortness of breath. https://trendkia.com/en/health/sardiyon-ke-ate-hi-kyon-barhane-lagata-hai-vajana-janie-isake-mukhya-karana-aura-bachava-ke-upaya-52545 TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.