does our metabolism change in winter?

revjames

Just wondered really. Have tried many times to lose weight and seem to be most motivated in the spring and make good progress in the spring and summer but it slows right down in the winter months. Do we tend to store more fat in the winter?

david081

I lost 26lbs last Jan-April...

stocking

I'm not sure about metabolism, exactly. As far as weight loss goes, however, I think it varies for everyone; some people suffer from seasonal disorders that make them less likely to be active and motivated during certain seasons while others don't. If you're the type of person that feels gloomy during winter then it will most likely affect your health and fitness routines.

AllanMisner

I think most of us are generally more active during the spring and summer. It's easier to be outside and easier to get out of bed when it is warm outside. But the body burns calories to keep you warm, so if you're exposed to cold weather, your body is going to burn more calories than it would on a warm day. I remember reading about the calorie needs of the Navy Seals when they were put in dangerously cold water. The shivering, which is a reflex to warm you up, is a huge calorie burner.

But most of us don't expose ourselves to the cold long enough for it to matter.