Top 10 Winter Diet and Fitness Tips

It’s not uncommon to pack of a few extra kilos when the cold creeps in. Keeping fit is an essential part of staying healthy.

Look and feel your very best with these tips and tricks to beat the winter bulge:

1. A cup of warm water, a freshly squeezed lemon and a pinch of cayenne pepper on an empty stomach will produce acids that aid in the digestion of food, kicking your metabolism into high gear.

2. Start your day off with five minutes each of push-ups, lunges and squats in 30 second intervals. The more muscle, the higher the metabolism.

3. Eating a big, healthy breakfast loaded with proteins and carbohydrates will keep those dreaded hunger pangs away for longer.

4. Cut back on alcoholic beverages. Indulge over the weekend with no more than three drinks with a calorie count of 100 per serving.

5. Fruit contains no fat and is mostly made up of water, so be sure to stock up on your favorite fruits this winter.

6. Avoid carbonated drinks. If you’re thirsty, drink water and if you need stimulation, drink black coffee.

7. Don’t give up on the pull-up. Pull-ups strengthen the biceps, middle back and shoulders keeping you toned and ready for summer.

8. If you’re in the mood for a later-night snack, satisfy your sweet tooth with fruit instead of chocolate cake.

9. Yoga is a great way to relive stress and tone the body. If you’re looking to improve your mood and flexibility, yoga is the way to go.

10. Setting realistic goals is the most important part of staying in shape and looking your best this winter. If you aren’t motivated, you are more likely to fail.