As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it becomes easier to stay indoors, exercise less and eat fewer fresh fruits and vegetables. But the winter weather shouldn’t mean your healthy habits take a backseat. To maintain your health and well being, try some of these simple steps.
- Buy in-season fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, cauliflower and potatoes.
- Eat plenty of fibre. Porridge made from whole grain oats, vegetable soup and vegetable bean chilli are all good options that will keep you satisfied.
- Keep your portion sizes in check. It can be easy to over-serve foods, such as rice, pasta and potatoes. Try using smaller plates or bowls when eating starchy foods – you’ll not only eat less, you’ll also have more space for vegetables.
- Be sure to rug up if you’ll be engaging in outdoor physical activity. If the thought of doing anything outdoors is too much or joining a gym is just isn’t your thing, increase your incidental exercise indoors – take the stairs, clean the house or schedule standing meetings at the office. Incorporate a fitness program that includes both aerobic exercise and resistance training.
- You still need to stay hydrated, even in the cooler months. Make sure you drink enough water each day and think outside the box – a cup of hot tea counts towards your daily fluid intake.
Reference: Mater Health and Wellness. Winter nutrition tips. Available from: http://wellness.mater.org.au/Articles/Winter-Nutrition-Tips
