Masaba Gupta shares that her body is craving ‘lighter, hydrating foods’ this spring; know how metabolism works with seasonal changes

Giving us a glimpse into her dietary routine that is changing as we enter spring, fashion designer Masaba Gupta shared about her craving for lighter, hydrating foods. “As we slip into spring, it is time to switch up our nutrition. My body automatically craves a lot more of lighter, hydrating foods and somehow lots of dairy and khichdi and fruit (obviously). But I find my metabolism revving up too…and I love a coconut water and malai snack at noon or 4 pm. Never post sunset,” said Masaba on her Instagram Stories.

Revealing that she has switched from intermittent fasting to eating every two hours, Masaba said while she finds malai delicious, “it is also a bit dense for me”. “I limit it to maybe 2-3 times a week. But the coconut water becomes a staple,” said Masaba.

Masaba Gupta is craving hydrating and light foods (Source: Masaba Gupta/Instagram Stories)

How is metabolism affected by seasonal changes?

Seasonal variations significantly impact metabolism, influencing how our bodies function year-round. According to Dr Rohini Patil, nutritionist and founder, Nutracy Lifestyle, studies reveal a correlation between seasonal changes and metabolic syndrome, particularly in individuals aged 30 or older.

In warmer weather, increased sweating leads to dehydration, prompting the hypothalamus to prioritise thirst over hunger to maintain hydration levels. “This shift results in cravings for lighter, hydrating foods and drinks such as ice-cold water, lemonade, citrus fruits, watery vegetables, smoothies, and salads,” said Dr Sukhvinder Singh Saggu, director minimal access, GI and bariatric surgery at the CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi.

Therefore, metabolism adapts to seasonal cues driven by circadian rhythms, light exposure, and temperature variations. Dr Patil shared that during warmer seasons, the body craves lighter, hydrating foods in tune with its energy and nourishment needs.

“Regarding food cravings, warmer seasons prompt a preference for lighter, hydrating foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables. These foods align with the body’s natural rhythms during spring and summer. Adjusting eating patterns to match daylight hours can optimise metabolism. Circadian fasting, tailored to seasonal changes, synchronises eating windows with daylight hours, enhancing energy levels and overall health,” said Dr Patil.

How to tweak your diet?

“Throughout the year, the body’s cravings for certain foods fluctuate, with preferences shifting towards heartier, calorie-dense options in colder months and lighter, refreshing choices in warmer seasons,” said Dr Patil. Some examples of lighter, hydrating foods beneficial for the body include cucumbers, watermelon, leafy greens, and berries.

Adjusting diet to match the season involves incorporating seasonal produce, hydrating foods, and adjusting meal timing to coincide with daylight hours, supporting optimal metabolic function and overall health.

While these patterns are generally observed across populations, individual preferences, cultural influences, and geographical factors can also affect food cravings and metabolism. “Therefore, while the tendency to crave lighter, hydrating foods in warmer weather is common, individual variations should be considered when addressing dietary needs and preferences,” said Dr Saggu.

Dr Srikanth H S, assistant chief medical officer), Jindal Naturecure Institute listed down seasonal changes and how the body’s cravings differ.

“These changes can influence hunger, energy expenditure, and food preferences,” said Dr Srikanth.

Winter

During colder months, the body may naturally crave more calorie-dense foods to provide warmth and energy. This is often referred to as “winter eating”. Additionally, people tend to be less active during winter, leading to potentially slower metabolism. However, individual variations exist.

Foods to crave

Hearty, warming dishes such as soups, vegetables, and whole grains like oats and barley. These foods provide sustained energy and help maintain body temperature.

Spring

As the weather warms up and daylight increases, metabolism may pick up. Many people find themselves naturally craving lighter, fresher foods after heavier winter fare.

Foods to crave

Fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, smoothies, and protein. These foods are hydrating, packed with vitamins and minerals, and can help with detoxification after winter.

Summer

With longer days and higher temperatures, metabolism tends to be more active. Appetites may decrease slightly due to the heat, leading to lighter meal preferences.

Do you tweak your diet according to seasons? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Foods to crave

Cooling and hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, salads, and grilled vegetables. These foods provide hydration, and essential nutrients, and are easier to digest in hot weather.

Autumn/Fall

As temperatures cool down again, metabolism might slow slightly in preparation for winter. People may start craving heartier foods as they did in winter but not as heavily.

Foods to crave

Seasonal produce like squash, pumpkin, apples, and root vegetables. These foods are nutrient-rich and provide a sense of warmth and comfort without being as heavy as winter fare.

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