LIVING EXHAUSTED IN WINTER IS NOT NORMAL. THE RIGHT FOOD CHANGES EVERYTHING IN A FEW DAYS AND HERE'S WHY
On cold days, the body seems to go into "energy saving" mode, doesn't it?
We wake up slowly, our coffee seems to last less and the sofa becomes a magnet. But, contrary to appearances, it's not just laziness. There's a physical and emotional explanation behind this drop in mood.
During the winter, the body tends to use more energy to keep warm, but, paradoxically, we move less. There is little sunshine, which reduces the natural production of vitamin D and serotonin, two substances linked to energy and good mood. The result? More tiredness, more hunger and less desire to get out of bed.
The good news is that it's possible to turn this around with simple and pleasurable changes.
The secret to having more energy in winter (and not feeling so tired)
When the cold weather arrives, many people feel the same effect: less mood, more sleep and an uncontrollable desire to stay cozy under a blanket.
But what seems like sheer laziness is actually the body trying to adapt to the drop in temperature and the lack of sunshine. The good news is that there are natural ways to regain your energy and good mood during the winter.
Why winter drains our energy
With shorter days and less sun exposure, the body produces less serotonin and vitamin D, which can cause discouragement and tiredness.
In addition, digestion tends to slow down and the body uses more energy to keep warm - and that's where food makes all the difference.
Vitamin C: the ally of energy and immunity
Among all the nutrients, vitamin C is one of the stars of winter.
It strengthens the immune system, improves iron absorption and helps the body fight fatigue.
Include it in your menu:
- Citrus fruits: orange, tangerine, lemon and kiwi
- Red fruits: strawberries, raspberries, acerola
- Vegetables: bell peppers, broccoli and cabbage
Tip: consume these fruits fresh or mix them with yogurt, porridge and even tea - the gentle heat helps absorption and makes the day more cozy.
Foods that awaken the body
To keep your energy up, opt for hot, colorful and nutritious dishes.
- Grains and legumes (such as lentils and chickpeas ) guarantee long-lasting energy.
- Spices such as ginger, turmeric and cinnamon activate circulation and "fire up" the metabolism.
- Walnuts and chestnuts offer good fats that nourish the brain and help concentration.
A ginger tea with lemon and honey, or a soup with vegetables and turmeric, can be your fuel to ward off the cold.
Light mind, awake body
It's not just the body that feels the winter. The mind also slows down.
That's why it's worth investing in moments of self-care: stretching when you wake up, taking a hot bath with a citrus scent and taking advantage of natural light whenever possible.
These small gestures stimulate the production of endorphins and serotonin, renewing your mood from the inside out.
So what's the secret?
The secret to having more energy in winter lies in feeding your body what it needs, moving a little every day and seeking out the sun whenever you can.
With vitamin C, good habits and a dose of pleasure at the table, the cold can become the most invigorating season of the year
