Winter weight gain is real, but there are some things you can do about it

You step on the scale and say, “what happened?”

Winter weight, it’s a real thing, and the average gain is 1 to 3 pounds.

That may not seem like a lot, but many of us hang on to that weight and over time it leads up to pounds we don’t want to carry around.

Overindulgence during the holidays is one cause, but certainly not the only one.

The holidays often bring added stress, which releases cortisol and adrenaline, both of which contribute to tummy fat. The colder weather has us moving less and turning to warm, higher-calorie comfort foods. Winter hormones and changes to your sleep routine can increase your appetite, and you may be eating more than you think.

Here are a few ways to shed those extra pounds and stave off additional winter weight gain.

Exercise daily, incorporating slow, light stretching to help relieve tension and stress.

Build your meals around nutrient-dense seasonal foods.

Maintain a healthy sleep routine.

For more information, visit familyhealthcheckup.org.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and is not meant as medical advice. It is the opinion of the writer. The information is not meant to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health professional.

Diet can help with arthritis

An anti-inflammatory diet can help lessen the painful symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Everyday Health reports.

While there isn’t a magic anti-inflammatory food that slows down the condition, healthy choices will keep your body properly fueled so you can decrease your chances of RA-associated illnesses like heart disease.

In general, try focusing on a plant-based diet that includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, and also include low-fat, calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese.

You can get the nutrition you need and still satisfy your sweet tooth when you choose small-portion, low-calorie desserts. To start, try to keep added sugar to less than 6 to 9 teaspoons per day. Try a bowl of fresh berries rather than a slice of berry pie.

Other dessert suggestions are:

• yogurt with no sugar added (add berries, granola, or walnuts)
• fruit salad
• dark chocolate (see recipe here)
• cottage cheese with berries and cinnamon
• pineapple upside-down cake
• yogurt with banana and curry
• cherry cobbler
• grilled peaches with ricotta cheese