With winter upon us, it’s easy to fall into a food rut. How do you keep up with your New Year’s resolutions and shake off the winter doldrums? Try eating these healthy winter super foods:
- Beans – A low-calorie protein option, beans also have the added benefit of being fiber-rich.
- Cabbage – Both colors of cabbage are low in calories (about 20 per cup), but red cabbage also contains phytochemicals that help with eye health.
- Citrus – Winter is the height of the season for fresh citrus and these lovely fruits reward you with ample amounts of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and fiber.
- Chicken Soup – Hot liquids help clear your sinuses and a compound in chicken soup may reduce upper respiratory inflammation.
- Garlic – While the exact mechanism is not known, garlic has been shown to fend off cold and flu viruses.
- Oatmeal – Eating whole grain carbohydrates such as oatmeal helps boost serotonin levels, an affect discovered in a recent MIT study.
- Turkey – Although most people reserve turkey for special occasions, this lean protein source contains relatively low caloric content and makes a great any-time winter food.
- Walnuts – These nuts contain Omega-3 fatty acids which help your skin better retain moisture.
- Winter Squash – Loaded with fiber and low in calories, winter squash helps keep you feeling fuller for longer. Squashes are also loaded with vitamins A and C.