Winter is one of the few seasons that offers an immense sense of magic and wonder. It’s that time of the year when all we want to do is snuggle deep into our cozy blankets and keep warm. In winter, our body starts craving foods that are warm and make us feel warmer from within.
The food you eat affects your body. When the temperature drops and cold weather sets in, fuel your body with food that can help raise your body temperature and make you feel warm.
Have we ever wondered how it works? During winter, it is better to consume foods that take longer to digest as the body’s temperature rises during metabolism. Fewer daylight hours also play a major role in cravings.
Here are some nutritious foods that can help keep you warm in cold weather:
Soups: The chilly weather makes you want to pile on layers and sit down with a hot meal. But winter foods are often in the “comfort” variety, which can mean they’re high in calories and unhealthy ingredients. Soup doesn’t have to fall into that category, however. Soup has a surprising number of health benefits if you prepare it correctly.
Soup is a great way to stay warm, reduce calories and maintain nutritional intake during the winter months.
Dry fruits and nuts: Almonds, cashews, and walnuts are very good sources of good fats and also help in regulating body temperature. Figs, dates, and olives are also good options as they are often used in countries that experience severe chills.
You have these dried fruits and nuts as is or add them to your glass of milk, sweet, halwa, and more.
Eat Red Meat: For non-vegetarians, meat can be a part of the diet as it raises body temperature during metabolism and is an excellent source of iron and protein. Red meat, such as beef, lamb, and pork, is a good source of iron.
Iron is an important mineral to help carry oxygen throughout your body. People with low iron may notice cold hands and feet or feel tired easily
Honey: Honey standalone, or added in salads will also help in winter as they are traditionally known as a cure for cough and cold.
Honey can be included in a pregnant and lactating mother’s diet as long as they do not have a history of diabetes. Kids can start having honey only after they turn 1 year old.
Ghee: Winters are incomplete without ghee. The flavor and aroma of this desi food can enhance the taste of any winter delicacy.
Ayurveda recommends this healthy fat and immunity booster in your winter diet because it is warming and grounding. Ghee can be used in food preparations for pregnant, and lactating mothers and kids.
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can make you think that you’re warm, but this is deceptive. When you drink, alcohol affects the blood vessels just below your skin. Alcohol can impair our decision-making ability, which can lead us to take risks we wouldn’t when sober.
The combination of drinking alcohol and cold weather can be lethal. For example, taking the decision to walk home without a jacket when it’s snowing could lead to a dramatic fall in your body temperature,
Drink Water: In colder weather, it’s more difficult to notice when your body is sweating. Perspiration combined with the extra layers of clothing and drier air can cause our bodies to become dehydrated without us even noticing. That’s why it’s important to drink water throughout the day.
Staying hydrated through the winter can boost your immune system and give your body the support it needs to fight off infection. Drinking water and staying hydrated can also help you stay warmer in the winter months.
