Winter is here – the season of cozy blankets, fuzzy socks, and mysteriously disappearing snacks. One minute your kitchen is fully stocked… the next minute you’re standing there wondering who finished the entire packet of roasted peanuts.

But before you judge yourself, let’s talk about why winter turns all of us into slightly hungrier, snack-seeking versions of ourselves — biologically, psychologically, and emotionally.

Your body is basically running a ‘winter mode’ update: When temperatures drop, your body needs more energy to keep you warm. It’s like your internal heater suddenly sends a memo: “Team, we need extra calories. Preferably warm, comforting ones. Immediately.” So without even realising it, your appetite increases — especially for carb-heavy, comforting foods.

Sunlight says bye, hunger says hi! : Shorter days = less sunlight = dip in serotonin — the “feel-good” hormone. Lower serotonin often triggers cravings for carbs because they temporarily increase its levels. Translation: your brain isn’t asking for that hot chocolate… it’s negotiating for better mood lighting.

The holiday season is a delicious trap: Let’s be honest. Winter comes with a package deal: festivals, parties, hot snacks, family gatherings, and “just taste this!” moments every three days. You aren’t overeating. You’re simply following the cultural calendar.

More time indoors = more time near the kitchen: It’s cold outside. You’re home more. The kitchen is 12 steps away. Mathematically this is a guaranteed problem. Also, the fridge has never looked more attractive.

Emotional comfort > salad: Winters make us seek warmth, comfort and coziness — and somehow that cozy feeling rarely comes from a bowl of cucumbers. Comfort food is called comfort food for a reason.

Hormones just love drama: Winter naturally bumps up levels of melatonin (the sleep hormone). More melatonin can sometimes mean more sluggishness… and when you’re low on energy, you’re more likely to reach for quick-fix foods like a sweet or cake or chocolate.

So…what do we do about it?

Good news! Eating a little more in winter is normal, natural, and nothing to panic about. But if your goal is to stay balanced:

• Add warm soups and stews to your meals
• Increase protein so cravings stay low
• Don’t skip your movement just because it’s cold – you need to workout now more than ever to maintain joint health in this season and burn those extra calories!
• Drink enough water (yes, even when you don’t feel like it)
• Serve your snacks in portion-friendly bowls instead of eating directly out of jumbo family packs

Final Thoughts: Winter is not the enemy. Seasonal hunger isn’t a personal failure.
Your body is simply adapting — and occasionally being dramatic. So enjoy your warm meals, stay mindful, and remember: the goal isn’t to eat less, it’s to eat smart. And maybe, just maybe, don’t stock up on too much junk.