As the seasons turn cooler and the nights get longer, a lot of different things can happen to your body. One that is often enjoyable but can also have an impact on your health is the increased craving for comfort foods. From casseroles to creamy soups, wintertime brings with it rich, heavy, delicious foods. It also brings some added pounds that aren’t exactly good for your health.
So just why is it that winter seems to trigger a kind of comfort ‘feeding frenzy’ filled with starch, carbs, and huge calorie counts? There are a few theories for this.
The first is that it’s engrained in our genetics. Our ancestors likely had to eat more food in order to survive winter. The extra calories helped keep them warm and boosted their energy. Another theory is that the carbs and starches in these foods, as well as a sense of nostalgia, help to release serotonin in the brain. This ‘feel good’ hormone can improve mood and trigger euphoria – something that anyone who’s ever had a delicious casserole can attest to.
With that in mind, just how can you eat healthy while your body and mind are calling out for these high calorie delights? Most experts agree that simply making some minor changes is all you need to do. For instance, use lean meat or even vegetarian alternatives when you make your favourite soups and casseroles. Or switch to low fat sausage and oven baked chips instead of creamy mashed potato piled high with butter.
Increase your recipe collection, too. There are plenty of thick, hearty soups out there that utilise potatoes or lentils to thicken them instead of heavy creams, and these are excellent for those comfort food cravings.
And if you just have to have that favourite pudding or custard, just try to eat in moderation. Once in a while is okay, 6 times a week is a bad idea.
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