I’ve seen various fitness fanatics try and loss body fat in the winter time, and whist for some great athletes this is the only option, for the rest of us it is a really bad idea. For one, the ancient secure of Ayurvedic points out that winter is a time for rest and rejuvenation. In fact, during this season our internal dryness is increased and so our bodies try and hold onto fat to protect us form the cold. Feeling cold is a stressor on the body, and so our natural tendency and biological functions operate to hold onto that fat until our systems can reboot in the spring time. With this in mind it is important to note a few points;
Winter is a time of air which is cold and very dry
this dryness can aggravate symptoms like arthritis, dry skin, respiratory infections, and intestinal dryness
dry intestines means sluggish bowels, gas, bloating and compromised immunity
skin inside reflects skin outside, thus dry skin indicates dryness inside, causing flare up of excess mucus to protect the respiratory and gastrointestinal system
this excess mucus becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and pathogens
Losing weight whilst the body is trying to adjust to all of these factors is a bad idea. In fact even fasting during this time can be your enemy, as our natural cycles in winter are one of rest, and storage of fat to combat colder atmospheres.
This is why, instead of focusing on weight loss, ficus on eating the right foods to naturally fight off flu and viruses. Wait for spring to detox, as this season deflates the body and enhances weight loss automatically.
Seasonal eating is the best medicine.
For more information on this topic or to learn which foods are nest during the winter, please visit this link;
https://lifespa.com/5-required-foods-winter-wellness/
Dr. John Douillard is a doctor practising Ayurveda and understands the importance of seasonal eating and lifestyle.