People tend to put on a few pounds as the weather gets colder. It might have something to do with the rich, decadent foods that characterize the holiday season, but why are such foods so popular during dreary months? It’s possibly because of the serotonin decrease that comes with shorter days—because we’re not getting adequate serotonin production due to the lack of sunlight, our bodies look for the hormone increase through alternative sources, such as carbohydrate intake. And, if you’re feeling depressed, seeking solace in comfort food (read: carb- and calorie-rich dishes) like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and baked goods could lead to weight gain. A good rule to remember is to limit simple carbohydrates (those with white flour) and stick to whole grains. Remember to pair any carb with a good source of low-fat protein like lean meats, cottage cheese, beans, and tofu. Balancing the two promotes feelings of satiety and will eliminate the severe drop in energy (and mood) that comes after a simple sugar binge.