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Top 7 Winter Super Foods

Winter is here and with it comes a whole new variety of delicious seasonal vegetables. There are certain foods we should be eating more of during the cold winter months to boost our immunity and keep healthy.

We compiled a list of the top 7 winter super foods and why you should eat them.

Pumpkin

This winter vegetable is delicious and comforting to eat on cold days and it can be added to warm salads, soups, curries, or eaten as a side dish along with a wonderful roast dinner. Pumpkin contains vitamin C and antioxidants which are both essential for a healthy immune system.

Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic that adds amazing flavour to the meals it is added to. 1 or 2 cloves of garlic eaten daily can go a long way to ward off nasty winter germs. If you don’t like the taste of garlic, you can also take a daily garlic supplement.

Organic Yogurt

Organic plain yogurt is one of the best winter superfoods because it is loaded with probiotic bacteria, which are the first line of defence of our immune system. These healthy bacteria protect us from bacteria and viruses that enter our body. Eat organic plain yogurt throughout winter on cereal, with fruit and added to smoothies.

Fennel

Fennel is a member of the celery family but it contains much higher levels of vitamin C and potassium and has a delicious liquorice flavour.  This winter vegetable can be eaten cold or warm and is wonderful added to coups, salads and stir-fries.

Salmon

Vitamin D is a very important immune-boosting nutrient that humans primarily obtain through direct sunlight on the skin. During winter we spend a lot more time in doors and the sun doesn’t shine as brightly during these months so we need to obtain Vitamin D through our diet. Salmon is a wonderful source of vitamin D and just 120grams of salmon can provide an adequate daily dose of vitamin D.

Eggs

During winter we need plenty of protein because amino acids are needed to make antibodies to fight infections. Organic eggs are an excellent source of protein and they are packed with immune-boosting nutrients like Vitamin A, D and zinc.

Dark chocolate

Organic, dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and minerals like zinc and magnesium which are all essential for a healthy immune system. Make sure to eat dark chocolate that is over 75% cacao or you can make a hot drink with raw cacao powder, hot water and xylitol.
 

Sources

http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/nutrition+tips/top+10+winter+superfoods,18311
http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/nutrition+tips/galleries/the+vegies+you+need+to+have+through+winter,36233