By Ujjainee Roy
October 16, 2024
As winter sets in, our bodies crave warmth, comfort, and immunity-boosting foods to combat the chill and ward off seasonal illnesses. During this time, it's essential to care for your gut health, as a healthy digestive system plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being. Sipping on gut-friendly drinks can aid digestion, boost immunity, and keep your body warm from the inside out. Here are some easy-to-make concoctions that are perfect for winter, promoting a happy gut.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting properties, while lemon provides a dose of vitamin C to strengthen your immune system. To make this drink, boil a few slices of fresh ginger in water, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and sip it warm. This tea can help relieve bloating, nausea, and indigestion.
This Ayurvedic blend combines three digestive spices that help balance gut health. Boil 1/2 teaspoon each of cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds in 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes. Strain and drink it warm. This tea aids digestion, reduces bloating, and stimulates the production of digestive enzymes.
Golden milk, or "haldi doodh," is a traditional Indian drink made with turmeric, which is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Warm up a cup of milk (dairy or plant-based) and add a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper (to enhance turmeric absorption), and a little honey for sweetness.
Peppermint is known for its ability to relax the digestive system, while licorice root soothes the stomach lining and reduces acidity. Combine these two herbs by steeping a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and licorice root in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Drink this tea warm to help with indigestion and bloating
Apple cider vinegar is a popular probiotic-rich drink that aids digestion by promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Mix a tablespoon of ACV with warm water, a dash of honey, and a pinch of cinnamon to create a warm, soothing drink.
Ajwain is a traditional remedy in Indian households for digestive issues. It has carminative properties that can relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion. To make ajwain water, boil 1/2 teaspoon of ajwain seeds in a cup of water, strain, and drink it warm. Adding a pinch of black salt can enhance the taste and digestive benefits