The winter is here in full flow, as the nights are getting longer and the days are getting shorter. This is the season where you will have to think twice before stepping out of your house without layering your outfits with sweaters, jackets, and hoodies. As beautiful as this season is, it is also a host for many seasonal illnesses and infections, such as colds, coughs, and respiratory issues. So, a few dietary changes can help you naturally safeguard yourself from the perils of the winter season.
As prevention is better than cure, it is always advised to make some smart and clever changes in your lifestyle that suit the ongoing season the best. Therefore, we bring you five essential tips that will help you stay warm naturally this winter season.
Incorporate Ghee
Ghee is a wonderful ingredient that has been praised for its therapeutic abilities even in the ancient Indian medicine system, Ayurveda. During the winter months, ghee is a must, as it is loaded with essential nutrients that keep your body warm while also providing you with the energy to function at your best and beat the winter sluggishness.
Use Honey
Just like ghee, honey is also a widely acclaimed product for its benefits. Simply replace your regular table sugar with honey and add it to salads and beverages to get its benefits along with the sweet taste.
Honey helps keep you warm. Although you should practice moderation while consuming honey, diabetics might have to avoid it completely.
Stock Up On Root Veggies
Eating root vegetables is a great way to keep yourself warm naturally during the winter season. The reason? These veggies take a much longer time to digest compared to others, which creates heat in your body that keeps you warm.
So stock up on veggies like potatoes, radishes, carrots, and onions, along with herbs like ginger and garlic. Experiment with different recipes that you prefer and enjoy these veggies throughout the winter season while also ensuring your body stays warm.
Munch On Dried Fruits And Nuts
Dried fruits are delicious small treats that are also packed with essential nutrients that your body greatly benefits from. Snack on dried fruits like anjeer (fig) and khajoor (dates) during the winter season to keep your body warm. They are widely accessible and consumed so you won't have any trouble getting them either.
You can enjoy both the dry fruits blended in a glass of milk for a filling meal, which has the best flavour. Apart from keeping your body warm, they are also natural energy boosters. But one more thing you should consider is that, just like honey, practice moderation since figs and dates have a lot of sugar content and too much of anything might do more harm than good.
Don't Ignore The Spices
The spices that we use aren't just for the flavour. They are packed with goodness and they also help keep you warm naturally. Incorporate spices like cinnamon, ginger, star anise, cloves, and more into your food and beverages to get the benefits.
The best part about these spices is that they are so versatile and can be easily added to many dishes while also enhancing their flavour. Add them to curries, coffees, teas, or any beverage like hot chocolate.