Why Winter Weight Won’t Budge (And How to Reset Your Metabolism for Spring)

Does it feel like your body is holding onto winter weight for dear life? You’re not alone. Cold weather, shorter days, and comfort foods can all slow down your metabolism, making it harder to shed extra pounds. But before you blame your willpower, let’s talk about what’s really going on—and how you can reset your metabolism to feel lighter, more energized, and ready for spring.

Why Winter Weight Sticks Around

1. Less Movement – It’s natural to hibernate a little in the winter. Fewer steps and skipped workouts mean fewer calories burned.
2. Comfort Food Overload – Hearty soups, baked goods, and warm, carb-heavy meals are winter staples, but they can lead to increased fat storage.
3. Lack of Sunlight – Vitamin D plays a role in metabolism and mood. Less sunlight can mean lower energy levels and more cravings.
4. Hormonal Shifts – Cold weather and reduced activity can throw off cortisol and insulin balance, making it easier to store fat.

How to Reset for Spring

The good news? You can jumpstart your metabolism with a few simple shifts:

✅ Prioritize Strength Training – Building muscle is the fastest way to increase calorie burn, even at rest.
✅ Balance Your Macros – A mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs helps regulate blood sugar and curb cravings.
✅ Get Outside – Even 15 minutes of fresh air and natural light can boost vitamin D and help with energy levels.
✅ Hydrate Like It’s Your Job – Dehydration slows metabolism. Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water per day.
✅ Stay Consistent – Your body loves routine. Small, daily actions add up over time.

Spring is coming, and your body is ready for a refresh. A few small tweaks can make all the difference in how you feel (and look) heading into the new season. Let’s make it happen together!

Interested in working with me? Learn more about my coaching program here.

Podcast to Check Out: 7 Signs of a Slow Metabolism + How to Boost It

A couple of years ago I learned that I have a slow metabolism. It was a simple test that my Functional Medicine Practitioner ordered for me. 

Our age is usually to blame for many of the changes we go through as women in our 40s, 50s and beyond. However, there are many things that we do to ourselves that can cause our metabolism to slow down - for example: under-eating, eliminating carbs, not getting enough micronutrients, just to name a few.

The good news is that if you feel you have signs of a slow metabolism, there are steps you can take to improve it naturally.

Here are the 7 signs Dr. Stephen Cabral shares in his podcast The Cabral Concept: 7 Signs of a Slow Metabolism + How to Boost It: 

1. Cold hands & feet

2. Fluctuating energy throughout the day

3. Poor digestion - bloating

4. Irregular bowel movements

5. Can't maintain weight range

6. Not feeling hunger 

7. Feelings of brain fog

As a FASTer Way Coach, this is a concern on the minds of many of my clients. 

One thing Dr, Cabral says, that I wholeheartedly agree with, is that if you think there is something going on, dig deeper. Dig deeper so that there is still time to do something about it before it gets worse and cause other issues. I can refer my clients to a Health Coach, but I encourage you to reach out to your own functional medicine doctor.

Listen to the podcast and let me know what you think!