When the cooler months arrive, not only do we lose the long sunny days but also the fresh fruits and vegetables of summer disappear. I know you are mourning the loss right now, but don’t worry there is a huge variety of food options available in the winter season as well. They don’t only taste good but also are healthy.
According to the best gastroenterologist in Islamabad, the human body changes metabolism and energy levels in the winter season. The food preferences must change with the season. Your body needs extra protection during this time in order to save yourself from a number of diseases. Opt for these healthy options to stay warm and healthy at the same time.
- Winter Squash
Winter squash is one such option that is abundantly found in the beginning of winters and then lasts through the whole season. It is full of fibre, beta carotene, magnesium,vitamin C and vitamin B6.
This also helps in maintaining the blood pressure and cholesterol. It is easy to cook while adding it to your favourite dish. Or use it as a roasted veggie.
- Ginger
To fight off and recover from all the deadly viruses, don’t look for artificial ways when you have ginger. It has been used in the past for gut issues like digestion problems, soothing upset stomach and boosting your immune system.
This is found all year round but the most fresh roots are likely to be those harvested in the winter months. Ginger contains a very strong flavor, so a little goes a long way. Use it in your dishes, make tea or add in your salads.
- Kale
A very versatile winter superfood is called Kale. It is extremely rich in potassium. Potassium helps in reducing the blood pressure by removing excess sodium from the body. Increasing the potassium has the same effect on the body as reducing the sodium intake does.
For pregnant women it is a great source of folate. It helps to form the fetal neural tube. Kale plant peaks in fall or winter. Swap it with spinach and add to your lovely winter dishes.
- Citrus Foods
We all know that citrus foods are rich in Vitamin C. These are extremely helpful in the winter season when the flu and cold season starts. Also, foods like oranges, lemon and grapefruits are high in phytochemicals (plant based chemicals) and minerals. These are said to help immensely in curing cancer.
Blood oranges are the ripest in the winter season. Make fresh juices and add these fruits in your daily routine.
- Apples
You didn’t know that apples were full of vitamin C, right? Or did you? Adequate amounts of vitamin C are very helpful in curing colds and in strengthening the immune system, especially in the winter season.
Apples also are rich in pectin which is a soluble fiber that has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels. Apples arrive at the end of the summer season. But continue till early winter or even late fall. Do add apples in your lale salad and eat it with almond butter for a healthier and tastier dish.
- Brussels Sprouts
If you want both taste and nutrients, don’t look any further. Go and get yourself some brussel sprouts. These mini and small shaped veggies are high in vitamin K content along with vitamin C. They also contain folate, potassium, manganese and vitamin B6.
These are typically harvested in late fall. It is recommended to toss these in the oven whenever you want a delicious but healthy meal.
- Sweet Potatoes
One of the best foods that we get in winter is sweet potatoes. These are a great source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that fights inflammation and free radical damage. Their peak season happens from October to december. Add these diced or sliced to soups and chilis when you get bored from baking them. There is another way of consuming sweet potato, spread it on a bran toast and try it out as a healthy breakfast.
Final Thoughts
There is a huge variety of foods to consume in the winter along with the cliche dry fruits that we eat. Do try these and protect yourself from viruses and infections.
