Winter is mostly about snuggling up in bed with a hot chocolate and sleeping in. This is the perfect season to relax. But with winter also come colds, coughs and flu. What our body needs during this time is a healthy, balanced diet that includes all the foods needed to support our immune system. There are a few effortless ways to eat nutritious foods to stay warm and energized during the colder months. We’ve covered the most important of these in this article, along with some super helpful winter nutrition tips.
Several vegetables and fruits of the month of December contain vitamin C.
December is a great time to stock up on vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit are in season. As well as cruciferous vegetables like kale and Brussels sprouts. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system, making it an essential nutrient during cold and flu season. Not only does it help fight infections, but it also helps the body recover from illness faster. Next time you’re shopping for the winter months, be sure to include plenty of vitamin C-rich seasonal foods.
Don’t forget the superpower of beets!!
Beets are one of the most amazing vegetables because of their versatility and nutrient density. They can be roasted, steamed, grilled, pickled or even eaten raw. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron, and vitamin C. But did you know that beets have a superpower, too? They can help you stay healthy throughout the winter. Indeed, they contain antioxidants that strengthen the immune system, such as betacyanin. The next time you’re not feeling well, try sipping some fresh beetroot juice or adding some to your stir-fry. You just might find that this humble root vegetable is your new best friend during cold and flu season.
Dates and nuts are also seasonal foods!! Enjoy!
There is no doubt that nuts and dates are among the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber, and make a great snack or addition to any meal. Eating nuts and dates can help you stay healthy in December:
- Nuts and dates are an excellent source of antioxidants.
- The healthy fats in nuts and dates can help keep your skin hydrated and supple.
- Eating nuts and dates can help boost your energy levels and keep you feeling full longer.
- The fibers contained in these foods can contribute to good digestion.
With sweet dates and crunchy nuts, turn them into energy balls the whole family can enjoy.
Have you thought about composing a 100% orange menu?! We give you an overview!
A delicious and nutritious fall feast can be made up of many delectable components. For breakfast, how about orange juice and papaya slices? An energy boost with a rush of vitamins and nutrients to start the day right. For lunch, enjoy an accompanied yam and orange salad or a roast pumpkin. The oven brings out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, and pairing it with a little savory spice makes for a perfect starter. For the main course, why not try a hearty carrot soup? This dish is sure to please vegans and meat eaters alike. And for dinner, try the grilled salmon with a side dish of roasted papaya and yams. There you have it, it’s a great way to enjoy December foods. So do not hesitate and try it! With a little creativity, you can plan other red, green and white meals… Why not?
Consume hot spices to fight common ailments.
It’s no secret that spices like cinnamon, turmeric and saffron can do wonders for your health. But did you know that these spices can also help you warm up in the winter? Cinnamon helps improve blood circulation, which makes it perfect for cold days. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, which can help relieve aches and pains. And saffron is a natural mood booster, helping to chase away the winter blues. Add these spices to your meals and you’ll be surprised at how comforting they can be.
Potatoes with skin in the oven: a treat for your stomach and a bonus of polyphenols for immunity.
We all know potatoes are packed with nutrients like potassium and fiber, but did you know they can also help boost your immune system? Indeed, potatoes with skin contain polyphenols, plant compounds with proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that polyphenols can help reduce the risk of various diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Baked potatoes are therefore not only delicious, but they are also good for your health! So go ahead and enjoy that extra serving of baked potatoes. Your stomach and your immune system deserve it.
