Summer is a time of fun, sun, and definitely food. Delicious dishes and refreshing drinks are a highlight of the season, making us crave for them all the time.

It’s not just us though, there’s a scientific reason behind our irresistible urge to eat in summer.

Sun Makes Us Hungrier

Exposure to sunlight can affect our appetite. Sunlight triggers the production of the hormone serotonin, which controls our mood and appetite.

High levels of serotonin can make us feel happier and more relaxed, but it can also increase our hunger and cravings.

Additionally, sunlight triggers the production of vitamin D in our bodies. Vitamin D is essential for our health, but it can also increase our appetite.

Studies have shown that people who have low levels of vitamin D tend to have higher body fat percentages, indicating that vitamin D plays a role in regulating our appetite and metabolism.

Hot Weather Calls for Cooling Foods

In summer, we tend to crave for foods that are light, refreshing, and cooling. This is because hot weather increases our body temperature and makes us feel thirsty. Our bodies naturally crave for foods that can help us cool down and keep us hydrated.

Fruits like watermelon, grapefruit, and berries are popular choices in summer. They are rich in water and vitamins, and can help quench our thirst while providing essential nutrients for our bodies.

Drinks like lemonade, iced tea, and smoothies are also great options for staying hydrated and refreshed.

Related Article Summer: The Season of Eating

Summer is a time for holidays, vacations, and social events. Barbecues, picnics, and beach parties are just a few examples of gatherings where people come together to enjoy food and company.

Social gatherings can trigger our desire for food and cause us to overeat. The excitement and enjoyment of being with friends and family can distract us from our hunger cues, leading us to eat more than we normally would.

Additionally, the variety of foods and drinks available at these events can make it hard for us to resist temptation.

Boredom and Stress Eating

Summer can also be a time of boredom and stress, especially for students on summer break or parents with children out of school. When we are bored or stressed, we tend to turn to food for comfort and relief.

Boredom and stress eating can be harmful to our health if we consume too much junk food or indulge in unhealthy snacking habits.

To avoid these unhealthy habits, it’s important to find other ways to cope with boredom and stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Conclusion

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with loved ones, and indulge in delicious foods. However, it’s important to be mindful of our eating habits and make healthy choices whenever possible.

By understanding the scientific reasons behind our cravings, we can make informed decisions and enjoy a happy and healthy summer.