Winter has its own charm and beauty which never fails to comfort with its freshness around. It is that time of the year when we love to ease in our shells and sip coffee while still on bed. But looking beyond the bright side, it also reminds us of the appalling winter blues and the unwanted baggage of cold and flu. So will that stop us from enjoying the season? The answer is no and to beat our mood swings and at the same time stay fit, we can always gorge on an array of foods which will not only keep us warm, but also healthy through winter.
Let us have a look on winter foods that will keep us healthy.
1. Water
Let me start with simple yet most essential need of our life, water. Our body needs water. Regular intake will keep us hydrated and help our metabolism and other bodily functions work in its natural course.
2. Eggs
Eggs are easily available everywhere and has got high protein content and all the necessary amino acids for body metabolism. It has vitamins like A, D, E and phospholipids, which allow nutrients into the brain in an effective way and helps brain functioning along with sharp memory. Trace amount of omega-3 fatty acids found in hen eggs are natural mood lifters and may even help ease depression.
3. Fish
In winter due to less exposure to sun, our body lacks Vitamin D. The common reason behind the seasonal affective disorder is the deficiency of vitamin D. In this case, fish can be supplemented in our diets. Oily fish are not only the good source of Vitamin D, but also an eminent store house of omega-3 fatty acids, which eventually help elevating serotonin levels in our body alleviating mood swings.
4. Chocolate
I am sure the name itself makes you feel better. Interestingly, it has got nutritional benefits too. Theobromine, which stimulates the central nervous system and helps muscular exertion, is also present in chocolates. Probably, the best remedy for lazy winters is caffeine, which helps to fight away fatigue and increases concentration.
5. Spinach and sesame seeds
Next on the chart are some green vegetables, of which spinach, peas, sesame seeds are worth mentioning. They contain various minerals such as iron and manganese. Spinach acts as a very good source of antioxidants, which can cheer you up and on the other hand sesame seeds are best eaten in winter as they keep our body warm and help skin retain moisture.
6. Nuts
Most of the nuts contain selenium, which is said to help fight depression. Peanuts are rich in antioxidants and also provide warmth to our body. Chestnuts contain vitamin C, which makes them a mandatory food for cold and flu.
7. Fruits
A healthy diet remains incomplete without fruits. Pomegranate seeds and strawberries are high in polyphenols, a powerful antioxidant. Even oranges, which contain vitamin C, are high in folate which is thought to enhance moods.
So even if you face the winter blues, you can always welcome it for healthy reasons.
