Doctor shares easy hacks to curb winter cravings as cold weather fuels 'cycle of overeating'

This drives those cravings for foods rich in sugar and fats that quickly convert to warmth and energy.

"Reduced sunlight also triggers dips in serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that regulate mood, making us more prone to fatigue, irritability, and seasonal affective disorder," Dr Wyllie explained.

"Carbohydrates boost serotonin, which is why we reach for bread, pasta and chocolate when the days get darker.

"It's not just hunger; it's your brain's way of compensating for lower mood and light levels, which can easily spiral into a cycle of overeating."

Ghrelin, the hormone that makes us feel hungry, increases while leptin, which tells us we're full, decreases.

These disrupted sleep patterns and reduced activity make it harder to feel satisfied after meals, creating a perfect storm for winter overeating.

Fortunately, Dr Wyllie shared some easy ways to naturally tame those winter cravings, from adding fiery spices like chilli, cayenne or ginger to your meals can help you feel fuller.

The capsaicin in chilli peppers fires up your metabolism while dampening hunger signals, the expert explained.

Loading up on fibre, with foods like oats, lentils, chickpeas and chia seeds expand in your stomach, telling your brain you're satisfied.

Another tip is eating dark chocolate with at least 70 per cent cocoa contains bitter compounds that signal your body to stop eating.

Even just smelling 85 per cent dark chocolate can trigger those fullness hormones.

Starting the day with protein-packed ingredients, like eggs, Greek yoghurt or smoked salmon on wholegrain toast keeps you fuller throughout the day.

Protein digests slowly, preventing those mid-morning energy crashes and sugar cravings.

Don't forget omega-3 fats found in salmon, mackerel and walnuts, as these healthy fats improve how your gut and brain communicate about hunger.

They make your body better at recognising when you've had enough by boosting leptin sensitivity.

Simple tricks like using smaller plates can also make a difference by making portions look larger, naturally helping you eat less.

When it comes to weight loss hydration also plays a crucial role.

Drinking water or herbal tea before meals prevents mistaking thirst for hunger, with research shows that drinking about 500ml of water 30 minutes before eating helps people naturally reduce their food intake.