Why do we gain weight in spring and how can we get those pounds off by summer?

Spring is a time when the weather gets warmer and the sunshine invites us outdoors more. This can lead to the desire to organise garden parties and enjoy barbecues with friends and family. But these enjoyable events can also bring calorie-rich foods and drinks and lead to a not-so-enjoyable result - weight gain.

How not to gain weight at a barbecue?

Spring garden parties and barbecues are part of life and it's perfectly OK to enjoy higher calorie foods and drinks in moderation. It's important to strike a balance and be aware of your food choices and portion sizes. If you've made a 'food mistake', don't feel bad about it, but focus on making healthier choices in the future.

The problem is that garden parties and barbecues are usually packed with high-calorie foods such as fatty meats, sausages, cheeses, potato salads, sweet drinks and sweets. Also, social interaction and entertaining environments can lead to out-of-control eating and increased calorie intake. Unnoticed amps here, amps there. Sound familiar?

Add to this the consumption of alcohol and the effect is even worse. No, it's not just the unhealthy effects of alcohol on your body. Of course it is, but alcoholic beverages are high in calories and often increase hunger.

So how can you avoid spring weight gain and keep your weight under control?

Make informed food choices

Choose healthier food options for garden parties and barbecues. When grilling, go for skinless chicken, fish or vegetables, which are known for being lower in calories and fat. Add fresh salads and fruit and vegetables to your menu. You can also try healthier variations on your favourite recipes, using less fat, sugar and salt, for example.

Follow the principle of measured portions

Control the amount of food and drink you eat. Follow the principle of measured portions to avoid excessive calorie intake. A barbecue doesn't have to be a place to forget all food wisdom and give in to temptation endlessly. You probably even know those mornings when you've overeaten the night before - in addition to feeling guilty, you're also often plagued by regret.

Drink alcohol in moderation

If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Alcoholic beverages are high in empty calories and can increase appetite and reduce self-control over food choices. This study also found, that alcohol consumption increases appetite and food intake, which can lead to weight gain.

Give preference to low-calorie drinks such as white wine or low-alcohol drinks. Don't forget to drink water to keep hydrated.

Find out more about the effects of alcohol and how to reduce your alcohol intake From the Alkoinfo page!

And of course - keep up the physical activity!

Spring is a great time to be even more active outdoors. Make physical activity a regular part of your daily routine to burn more calories and keep fit. When the weather's nice, go for a walk, run, cycle or garden. If the weather is bad or you want a guided workout, choose a workout from FitQ. Or at midnight. Watch a selection of video trainings here!

You could also try new activities such as a picnic in the countryside, hiking or walking on the beach. Physical activity can help burn extra calories and keep weight under control.

All in all, spring can be a time when weight gain is common, as garden parties and barbecues can increase calorie intake. However, it is possible to keep weight under control by making healthier food choices, watching portion sizes and being active. Finding a balance is key to enjoying spring and summer healthily and maintaining a healthy weight.

NB! Read our other good advice on exercise and nutrition!