Science Explains Winter Cravings: Why We Desire Carbs, Fats, Warm Meals

• Cold weather triggers thermoregulation, increasing energy burn and appetite for calorie-dense foods like fats and carbohydrates.
• Hormonal shifts occur in winter: leptin (satiety) decreases, ghrelin (hunger) rises, and lower sunlight affects serotonin levels, boosting carb cravings.
• The gut microbiome adapts to seasonal diets, with bacteria thriving on sugar and fat sending stronger hunger signals to the brain.
• Mild dehydration in cold weather is often mistaken for hunger, leading to increased consumption of rich, comforting foods.
• Reduced taste sensitivity in cold temperatures makes people prefer saltier, spicier, and richer foods for satisfaction.

Why It Matters: Winter cravings for carbs, fats, and warm meals are a biological response driven by evolution, hormones, and gut health.