Don't go on a diet, just eat right this Winter!
Don't go on a diet, just eat right this Winter!
Winters are notorious for adding those extra kilos to your weight. According to a research conducted by Johns Hopkins University, people tend to gain five to seven pounds on average during the winter months. Though many blame it on the much craved over eating during these cold months, the actual truth is not eating right that causes weight gain. Many of us are a neophyte when it comes to eating right, more so when the freezing weather abstains us from staying away from hot chocolates, piping hot desserts, and the likes. Well! It is time we endorse the various foods that not only whet our appetite but also keep us healthy and immune. While you feel cozy snacking up on samosas and jalebis and sipping a cup of steaming tea cuddled in a quilt, you need to explore the other goodies that the freezing season brings along. With winter spreading its arms, it is that time of the year again when, in order to keep warm, we should know what to gorge on. Check out these healthy options.Nuts
Leafy vegetables
From the aromatic ‘pudina ki chutney’ to our very notorious ‘popeye ka palak’, leafy vegetables are a must- have in winters as they are rich antioxidants. Spinach is ubiquitously known to provide calcium, potassium, phosphorous, fibres and iron. Leafy stuff like fenugreek, coriander, mint are rich in fiber too. Other vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, tomatoes help in fighting against cold and flu.
Sesame seeds
Roots
Carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, radish, ginger, garlic, onions and beetroot, say yes to roots this winter. Roots provide warmth, are extremely nutritious and high in dietary fiber, Vitamin C, manganese, copper and potassium. Even if beets are considered high in sugar, they are very low in calories. Potatoes are said to be rich in vitamin A. Apart from making salads, soups and curries, these roots can either be baked or can be consumed boiled, grilled or roasted.
Soups
Soups are good cocktail snacks. A steaming bowl of soup,(dal-palak ,coriander-ginger-lemon, spinach, tomato or mix vegetable soup ) provides the right amount of nutrients you need. Add a spoon full of butter in the soup that will help you keep warm and happy.
Fruits
Jaggery
Beverages
Substitute that tempting cup of steaming hot coffee, with a cup of Herbal tea, as Herbal tea will not only boost your immunity but will also keep you hydrated during winters. Freshly extracted juices taken without ice cubes are also good. Alongside, hot milk with a pinch of turmeric is a preferred beverage.
Grains
Millets like Bajra, Jawar and Makki ( corn) are good for winters. These not only provide heat to the body, but are also rich in carbohydrates, iron, fibres, proteins and vitamins. Get your taste buds drooling over the very scrumptious makki ki roti and sarson ka saag or relish bajre ki roti with ghee and gur (jaggery).
Water