Winter has arrived and it’s time to enjoy the fresh weather and warm gloves. However, the sudden knock in the air also entails a number of health problems including the common cold and flu. This is why experts recommend boosting your immunity and overall nourishment to help fight the cold weather. Nutrition consultant Rupali Datta suggests, “During the winter, what you eat is very important to combat the cold outside. There are certain foods that can naturally generate heat in the body. Therefore, one has to customize the pantry and include winter-friendly foods in it for the season.” These foods not only help to cope with low temperatures, but also prove proven effective in people with low immunity. And the best part is that you don’t have to go searching long to find them. In fact, there are several daily foods that replenish all the nutrients our bodies need during the winter.
(Read more: Winter Special: Try This Easy Carrot Recipe for a Quick and Healthy Lunch)
We bring you a few everyday food options such that not only will you enjoy the winter, but can also keep you warm and nourished throughout the day. Let’s take a look.
Winter Diet: Here are 5 daily food choices to keep you warm:
1. My dear:
A healthy sugar substitute, honey is packed with vitamins, minerals and several essential nutrients. Not only does it keep you warm, but it’s also known to boost digestion and metabolism. You can start your day with a glass of warm water and honey to start the day healthy.
2. Palm sugar:
Another healthy alternative to sugar, jaggery (or gud) is synonymous with winter indulgence. Besides being delicious and flavorful, it’s also packed with iron and several other minerals that make it a great addition to your overall diet. Eat it right away or add it to your favorite dessert – jaggery defines goodness in every way.
3. Ghee:
Ghee is probably the best definition for healthy fat. It includes several essential nutrients and is considered beneficial for overall health. In fact, ghee has been a part of traditional medicine practices since the time of eons. You can add ghee to rice, roti, sabzi, dal or whatever and enjoy its taste and deliciousness every day.
4. Spices:
The deliciousness of Indian kitchen spices is not unknown to everyone. Cloves, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, haldi, etc. have been a part of Ayurveda since ages and are consumed in many ways. You can have it as churan or add it to your masala chai – these spices help keep you warm and provide comfort throughout the season.
5. Dried fruit:
Let’s agree – dried fruit is considered a superfood. Almonds, cashews, raisins, anjeer, etc contain every essential nutrient and can be a great addition to your winter diet. You can eat these dried fruits and nuts or add it to milkshakes, sweets, halwas and more.
You have all these ingredients in your pantry. Aren’t you? What are you waiting for? Start including these foods in your daily diet today and enjoy a healthy and happy winter. But always remember, moderation is key.
