Following are the foods that help you to keep warm during winters.-
*Whole grains like jowar, bajra, barley, oats and corn have great warming properties. Whole pulses like moong, chana, matki and soyabean are also quite useful for driving away the chills. Have them in the form of gruels, in rotis, or boiled.
*Besides generating heat, spices like cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, garlic, cloves and pepper also contain phytochemicals that act as decongestants, are anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory. Ginger and garlic especially are great decongestants and improve blood circulation.
*Hot soups and stews are definitely a good option in winters.A bowl of healthy and wholesome soup is not only nutritionally sound, but will also make you feel full and prevent you from eating junk food. Avoid ready soup mixes as they contain high amount of starch and preservatives.
*Snack on unsalted nuts and dry fruits like almonds, cashewnuts, raisins, walnuts and apricots. They are nutritionally dense and take longer to digest, keeping your appetite in check. Have them in appropriate quantities (6-8 pieces) and balance the intake with a healthy dose of exercise.
*Seasonal fruits and vegetables like dark green vegetables, carrots, pumpkin and amla, are great sources of iron, folate and vitamins A, B complex and C, which boost immunity and combat viruses and bacteria that cause infections.
*Water is one of the most neglected nutrients during winters. Sip water, juices, green tea and kahwa at regular intervals throughout the day to keep yourself warm and hydrated.