Cough, cold, and chills—these are some of the common problems we face in winter. We often reach for cups of adrak wali chai, cosy blankets, and hot water bottles to keep warm. But did you know that nature has amazing foods that provide warmth, nourishment, and comfort during winter? Here are the five best healthy food items you can include in your diet to stay warm and active this season. All these food items are also super easy to incorporate into your daily diet!
5 Healthy Food Items To Include In Your Daily Diet This Winter Season
1. Ginger
Adrak wali chai is famous for keeping you warm, but ginger can do much more. Apart from adding it to tea, you can include it in your daily diet. It not only adds flavour but also has natural warming properties. Add ginger to vegetables, soups, curries, or simply brew it in water and drink it warm. Ginger keeps you healthy and helps prevent cold and cough.
2. Garlic
No list of the healthiest food items for winter is complete without garlic. Garlic contains allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties that supports the immune system and keeps winter illnesses at bay. It also has a warming effect, making it a natural protector against the cold. Garlic is easy to include in Indian dishes, curries, soups, stir-fries, or pulaos. It’s versatile and pairs well with almost every recipe.
3. Nuts And Seeds
Nuts and seeds are tiny superfoods that keep you warm, boost immunity, and keep you active. Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds are just a few examples. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals that keep the mind alert and the body energised. Sprinkle them on breakfast oats, blend into smoothies, or roast and eat as a snack.
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4. Dark Leafy Greens
Nothing keeps you warm like a hot steaming bowl of Saag with Makki ki Roti or Palak Paneer. Dark leafy greens are not only delicious and comforting but also rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins. They help maintain body heat and keep you healthy in winter. Toss them into salads, stir-fries, or soups for a nutritious boost. Dark leafy greens are not just healthy but also deserve a spot in your list of must-have food items this winter season.
5. Sweet Potatoes
There is a reason we see shakarkandi carts lining our market streets in winter. These sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates and beta-carotene, releasing energy slowly to keep you warm for hours. Roast or bake them to enjoy their nourishing flavours. Sweet potatoes also evoke childhood memories of cosy winter evenings. The best part? They are super tasty!
Apart from these five healthy food items, you can also include honey, cinnamon, oats, and legumes in your diet to stay warm and healthy this winter. Stay cosy, nourished, and energised!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ VeselovaElena and Matheus Bertelli
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