More research is needed, but there appears to be a connection between lack of vitamin D, insulin resistance and obesity. In other words, people who are obese are more likely than their thinner peers to have low levels of vitamin D. And it’s pretty easy to get more D this time of year: your body naturally produces it when your skin is exposed to sunlight.

5. It’s easier to find — and enjoy — healthier food.

Fall festivities often go hand-in-hand with roasts, creamy soups and cheesy casseroles. Spring and summer gatherings, however, are more apt to feature cold salads, shrimp and chicken skewers, and lots of stone fruit, berries and watermelon. Of course, it’s still possible to overdo it on the cheeseburgers and ice cream. But with so many lighter choices available, it becomes much easier to pick healthy foods.

6. You can sip your way to weight loss.

Just as the food gets lighter in the spring and summer, so do the drinks, and thanks to warmer temps, you’re probably craving more hydration now than when it’s cold out. If you’re aiming to slim down, try making iced green tea your beverage of choice.

“A compound in green tea, EGCG, has been associated with increased fat burning, appetite control and weight loss,” says Lakatos. Just remember to hold the sugar; a little fresh mint is a nice add-in if you’re craving something extra.

(Health delivers relevant information in clear, jargon-free language that puts health into context in peoples’ lives. Online at www.health.com.)

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