By Donna V. Scaglione
This is the time of year when the days are shorter, and for some us, the weather is a bit drearier. Our get-up-and-go appears to have gotten up and went with the sunshine, making it harder to feel motivated to move. But move we must if we are to ward off winter weight. So before you cave into that chocolate craving and only temporarily boost your mood and energy level, mull over these suggestions for surviving winter feeling better — and without the love handles.
1. Stock the pantry
Fill your pantry with satisfying, healthy foods like rice, beans, whole wheat pasta and cereals, dried fruit, vegetables, and cans of tomatoes. These staples help you quickly whip up soups, stews, and other home-cooked entrées that you can enjoy over several nights, saving you time, as well as money and calories on high-fat takeout meals.