Winter Slim Down Secrets

A chilly morning is a sure sign that winter is coming…. But, it doesn’t mean that you totally embrace the layers and let it all hang out underneath. Sure, we know that eating less and exercising more is one simple, tried-and-true weight management strategy. But here are three secrets you may not have heard of.

Secret number one: Turn down your heater a little. Sounds odd, right? Yet studies indicate that cozy indoor temps may inhibit calorie-burning because your body doesn’t have to burn extra calories to keep warm. But not if it’s feeling toasty. Research suggests that keeping temps below 20 degrees Celsius may help fire up your metabolism. (Source: RealAge)

Secret number two: Go to bed early. A lack of sleep throws appetite hormones into a Britney Spears gimme-more mode. Poor sleep also affects blood sugar and insulin levels in a way that can increase the risk of excessive weight gain. Your goal: 7 to 8 hours of nightly shut-eye, day in and day out.

Secret number three: Cut down your dinners out to once a month. Preparing meals at home allows you to control fat, sugar, and salt content — and let’s you know exactly what you’re eating. I once heard from a top chef that as a general rule, butter is added to EACH meal before it leaves the kitchen and arrives on your table. Apparently it makes the food shine and taste spectacularly! Uh-oh!