Why Do We Feel Hungrier in Autumn and Winter?

1. Light and Hormones

● Shorter daylight hours affect the body’s production of melatonin (sleep hormone)

and serotonin (feel-good hormone).

● When serotonin dips, we often crave carbohydrate-rich foods (like bread, pasta,

chocolate) because they give us a temporary boost.

2. Evolutionary Programming

● Historically, winter meant food shortages.

● Our bodies are still wired to “stock up” in autumn, increasing appetite and nudging

us to eat more in preparation for colder months.

3. Temperature Regulation

● Eating more, especially warm and calorie-dense foods, helps generate heat and

maintain body temperature in cooler weather.

4. Mood and Comfort

● Darker, colder days can make us feel lower in mood (sometimes called “winter

blues”).

● Comfort foods can act as emotional support, giving us warmth and familiarity.

5. Less Movement, More Time Indoors

● Shorter days often mean less outdoor activity and exercise.

● When energy output drops, but appetite stays high, it can feel like hunger is stronger

than usual.

What Can Help

● Balance your plate: combine protein, fibre, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied for

longer.

● Seek natural light: a short walk outdoors helps regulate hormones that influence

appetite and mood.

● Plan warm, nourishing meals: soups, stews, and roasted vegetables give comfort

without relying only on processed foods.

● Stay active indoors: yoga, resistance bands, or dancing in your living room keep

energy levels steady.

✨ In short: our bodies naturally nudge us to eat more as the days grow shorter, but with a few mindful choices, we can honour those instincts while still feeling energised and balanced.

Contact me to find out how to best nourish your body and find a sustainable way of eating that keeps you feeling your best!