Scientists claim that on a subconscious level, a person associates winter with a lack of food and essential nutrients. For this reason, the desire to accumulate energy becomes stronger, increasing the need for calorie-dense food, but in current realities, the modern person shifts the focus to sweets and baked goods.
Next, we will take a closer look at the medical and psychological reasons that prompt a person to increase the amount of sweets in their diet.
One of the main reasons is considered to be a deficiency of vitamin D and other important substances. The fact is that vitamin D depends on sunlight activity, so its deficiency occurs in winter. Additionally, a lack of magnesium can provoke cravings for chocolate.
A decrease in physical activity during the cold season leads to a reduction in endorphin production, which affects the sensitivity of dopamine receptors. And tasty food is an excellent way to obtain pleasure, albeit a rather passive one.
The craving for sweets is influenced by low protein and fiber intake; with an unbalanced diet, a person does not experience a feeling of fullness and there is no stable blood sugar level. This leads to spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels. After a short time, there is a "rollback," the sugar level drops, and the craving for fast carbohydrates only intensifies.
Another important factor is lack of sleep. Due to sleep deprivation, there is an energy deficit, and as a result, the brain signals the need for high-energy food. Sweet and fatty foods allow for a quick compensation of energy deficiency. Insufficient lighting also becomes a significant trigger, disrupting the body's biorhythms.
The psychological reasons for the formation of cravings for sweets are also diverse. One popular pattern is the use of sweets for relaxation: a person, experiencing stress or tension, seeks comfort in sweets. Among the reasons is also rewarding oneself with sweets for achievements, which creates a conditional connection between success and sweets.
Seasonal depression plays a special role in increasing the craving for sweets, which often arises against the backdrop of short daylight. Symptoms of this condition include drowsiness, fatigue, avoidance of social interaction, low mood, and cravings for sweets. Strong stress provokes cravings for sweets. Emotional eating becomes an automatic response to negative feelings.
How can one combat cravings for sweets during the winter period? First, it is necessary to eliminate internal tensions and negative emotions, correct deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D and magnesium, and include more omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. It is recommended to avoid skipping meals and to maintain a sleep schedule. It may be necessary to consult a doctor and undergo tests to determine the causes of poor well-being, but in any case, one should not engage in self-diagnosis and treatment, as this may only worsen the condition.
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