It is known that when we are in low spirits we console ourselves with food. This is what happens during a seasonal depression¹, which results in depression related to the lack of natural light that occurs in autumn or winter. During this period, the days are shorter and the luminosity is less intense, it goes from 100 to 000 lux. Half of the population, including a majority of women, would be affected by this pathology. This depression causes a state of significant fatigue, with a sharp drop in activities, a higher degree of stress which generates compensatory behaviors such as higher consumption of caloric food and a tendency to isolate oneself. Even if one decides to stay at home, there are ways to combat this lack of light, such as light therapy. It is indeed a good way to fight against seasonal depression; the supply of light, even if it is artificial, can help to regulate the biological rhythms and the production of various hormones. 

A greater appetite in winter                                                                                                   

Experts² found that with the drop in temperatures and the shorter days, it became more difficult to control your appetite. The food then becomes as comforting, we have a stronger tendency to rush to fatty foods (chocolates, cakes, pastries) and more hearty cooked dishes (raclette, tartiflette, poutine). This high calorie diet would make people happier. But it could also be explained by a cultural question: we are not used to eating salads and fruits as we do in summer, because there are less of them, but also because we associate winter with generous, warm and friendly dishes. . Thus, a study³ showed that there was a difference in meal size and calorie content from fall. Those who attended admitted to experiencing increased hunger pangs during this time. Research also shows that the environment plays an important role in weight gain in winter. Indeed, this season is full of opportunities that encourage you to have fun (Thanksgiving, end of year celebrations, epiphany, Valentine’s Day).

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (Ed). Diseases & Conditions – Seasonal Affective Disorder, MayoClinic.com Yanovski, J.A, New England Journal of Medicine (2000).Ma, Yungsheng. European Journal of Clinical Nutriction (2006) 60, 519-528 De Castro J (1991). Seasonal rhythms of human nutrient intake and meal pattern. Physiol Behav 50, 243-248