6 Ways To Maintain Your Wellness During The Winter Months

As we transition into the winter season, we understand the allure of comfort food and the desire to stay cozy indoors. Yet, it’s crucial to prioritize your health during this time, particularly when our activity levels tend to decrease. Celebrity expert and registered dietitian Zoe Griffiths from Allurion offers valuable insights to help you maintain your well-being this winter without sacrificing your enjoyment. —Vita Daily

1. Balancing Health and Comfort: Winter invites us to hearty and comforting meals. However, striking a balance between indulgence and health is essential. Exploring new recipes allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Try incorporating winter vegetables like butternut squash and sweet potatoes into your dishes. These are not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, embracing the art of mindful eating can help you relish each bite and help you to better recognize when you’re satisfied , reducing the likelihood of  overindulgence.
2. Portion Control: Remember, portion control is not about deprivation but about savouring servings that suit you,  mindfully, allowing you to appreciate each bite’s taste fully. By controlling the volume of food, you can still enjoy the rich flavours of winter while maintaining a healthy balance. Portions are personal, what’s right for you is different to someone else based on your personal needs, goals and lifestyle. Finding the right portions involve trial and error and aiming to listen to your physical fullness signals to help you decide when to stop eating. 
3. Winter Culinary Tips: Winter gastronomy doesn’t have to come with guilt. To make the most of this season’s culinary delights, consider using whole grains like quinoa and brown rice in your dishes. These grains provide sustained energy and help you stay fuller for longer. Furthermore, explore different cooking techniques like roasting or steaming to retain the nutritional value of your ingredients. Seasonal herbs and spices like rosemary and cinnamon add flavour and offer potential health benefits.
4. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is vital, even in winter. While cold water may not be appealing, there are plenty of ways to stay hydrated with warm, comforting beverages. Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger can feel comforting. To add a refreshing twist, consider infusing your water with citrus slices or cucumber. This adds a touch of flair to your daily routine, promoting hydration. 
5. Indoor Physical Activity: Winter can sometimes limit outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo exercise. Indoor workouts can be enjoyable and convenient. Incorporate activities like yoga, Pilates, or bodyweight exercises into your routine. These keep you active and help with flexibility and core strength. Remember, staying active during winter contributes to improved mood and overall well-being, counteracting the temptation to become sedentary. Simply trying to carry on your spring and summer routines may not work for you, so take some time to rest your goals and plans. 
6. Community and Mutual Support: The winter season can present unique challenges to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s crucial to recognize that you’re not alone in this. Seek support from friends and family to create a sense of community. Share your winter health goals and progress with others, and you may find that mutual support and accountability make it easier to stay on track. Group activities or challenges can also make the journey towards a healthier winter more enjoyable. Try cross country skiing, snowshoeing, a gorgeous winter hike. 

allurion.com