Cold winter temps make the body store more fat, right? Not quite. While people still typically gain weight during the colder seasons, the weather is not the culprit. Rather, the cause is a more common one: decadent foods.

During the fall and winter months, we tend to treat ourselves to more fatty foods: creamy soups, rich casseroles and delicious holiday desserts. The cold weather also keeps us snuggled up indoors, which might seem cozy but will inevitably pack on the pounds as our metabolism slows due to inactivity. 

So, how can we fight the winter bulge? 

Stay Active

Exercise is the best weapon against winter weight gain. No matter how frightful the weather outside may be, make a commitment to hit the gym three times a week.

Alternatively, invest in some intense fitness DVDs and work up a sweat in your living room. Beachbody makes great sets that will keep your workouts fresh and your body sculpted, such as TurboFire or Insanity.

There are also plenty of calorie-burning activities in the winter to try: skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, crosscountry skiing and tubing will all strum up those endorphins!

Direct Sunlight

If the sun is peaking through, go outside. Even if the temperatures are crazy low, the sunlight will lift your spirits. Feeling down in the dumps can make us eat more and on gray winter days such a trigger can happen without warning.

"Even an hour of direct sunlight a day can help elevate your disposition," says Raymond W. Lam, M.D. You heard him, so make the most of that winter sunshine!

Drink Less

The winter is full of parties and holiday celebrations with overflowing booze. Be merry and have a drink but switch to water before ordering a second. Also, skip refills on the eggnog. Remember, alcoholic drinks are sneaky calorie bombs–especially ones with egg yolks, cream and sugar. Enjoy some rich treats but don't binge. 

Eat Well

Don't let gluttony become your sport of choice this winter. Stuffing yourself with mashed potatoes, candied yams and pecan pie means you'll be uncomfortably full later and chained to a treadmill come New Year's. Fill your plate up with healthy choices, then add small portions of rich and decadent foods. This will allow you to get a taste but not overindulge. Plenty of seasonal vegetables are low in fat and calories, like pumpkin, acorn squash, butternut squash, apples, oranges, artichokes, kale and Brussel sprouts. Load up on those first before you head for the carbs!