Why We Crave More Carbs in Winter: The Science Behind It

A new study recently published unveils how seasonal changes influence the metabolism of Israelis. Conducted by the company Lumen, the study analyzed data from 8,000 users and found significant differences between winter and summer in the body's metabolic function.

The findings revealed that in winter, the body burns more carbohydrates, whereas in summer, the focus shifts to fats. Dr. Meirav Mor, one of the founders of Lumen, explains: "The body burns carbohydrates in winter to maintain warmth, while in summer, thanks to the warmer temperatures, it prefers using fats."

According to the data, in winter Israelis consume an average of 115.9 grams of carbohydrates per day, a 20% increase compared to summer when only 96 grams are recorded. This phenomenon is linked to changes in appetite during the colder seasons and increased consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods.

Surprisingly, Israelis walk more in winter – around 8,200 steps a day compared to 7,000 steps in summer. However, sleep duration remains stable throughout the year, averaging 7.5 hours per night.

The Importance of Sunlight Exposure

The study also highlighted the role of sunlight exposure in summer, which boosts vitamin D production and aids metabolic function. In winter, the cold and shorter days might reduce motivation for physical activity and alter dietary habits.

The research emphasizes the need for dietary and physical activity adjustments according to the season to maintain optimal metabolic health year-round.