Five tips to stay healthy in the final stretch of winter

Although we’re moving towards the summer months, there is a still another month or two of chilly weather.

In light of this, eating healthily and well does not need to be a struggle during the cold months.

Terry Harris, a dietitian at Discovery Vitality, said to stock up on seasonal produce.

Avocados will still be in season for a while longer, or you can make the most of local, seasonal fruit by stocking up on apples, dates, citrus fruit, melon, papayas, pears, pineapples and tomatoes.

“You can also add diversity to your diet by experimenting with winter veggies, such as asparagus, broad beans, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, peas, peppers, pumpkin, radishes, spinach and squash.”

Harris said to include root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and beetroot. “These foods are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, so not only are they more affordable, they also promote good health, which helps in boosting your body’s immunity.”

Harris provided these five tips to eat well:

• Soup is a clever way of upping your vegetable intake during winter. Add lean protein (such as beans, lentils, chickpeas or shredded chicken) and corn kernels or a wholegrain slice of bread on the side for a nourishing, balanced lunch or dinner. Try this cannellini bean soup with spinach, tomato and chives as a tasty vegetarian option.

• Have oats (cooked in milk) for breakfast – it’s a warm and filling way to start the day, and it’ll sustain your energy levels throughout the morning. Oats is also versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways by adding different nuts or nut butters, seeds, and fruit.

• Hot milky drinks can be comforting in winter, but hold off on the sugar and skip the hot chocolate altogether. If the thought of drinking glasses of cold water during the chilly months sounds unpleasant, go for hot water flavoured with lemon or unsweetened herbal teas to stay warm while keeping hydrated.

• Skip sugar-laden puddings and enjoy the natural sweetness of fruit instead. Good substitutes for puddings are baked apples or pears filled with nuts, or roasted pineapple or banana with a dollop of unsweetened yoghurt.

• You’ve heard of using local, seasonal ingredients, but matching your cooking methods to the climate is just as smart. Not only do you get the best out of fresh produce in terms of taste and cost, but you can warm yourself up with well-chosen cooking techniques.

Harris adds, “It’s natural to feel hungry more frequently in cold weather. Make it easier to choose healthy foods by prepping meals and snacks in advance. Go for dishes that are filling and nourishing.”

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