Nutrition in the Winter

Trying to avoid all the bugs going around this winter? Keep your immune system strong.

According to UPMC Health Beat these are 6 ways to help you accomplish that.

  1. Eat plenty of healthy carbs- Eating healthy carbs can help boost your serotonin levels which helps you avoid the winter blues. Try adding nuts, whole grains, beets, sweet potatoes, yams and squash to your diet.

  2. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables- Try new recipes with fruits and vegetables that are in season such as squash, broccoli, brussel sprouts, turnips, oranges, tangerines and pomegranates (my personal favorite).

  3. Drink more water and tea- being properly hydrated is a great way to keep your energy up and hot teas are a warm way to achieve that during the winter. Teas can also help build up your immunity, fight off some illnesses and stimulate your metabolism.

  4. Practice moderation- Most infectious viruses and bacteria bind to and feed on sugar. Help your body get a jump start by cutting back on the sweets or reaching for berries instead.

  5. Eat on a regular schedule- A regular meal schedule can stimulate your metabolism and keep your energy levels high this winter despite the temperature outside, also limiting snacking on sweets.

  6. Consider adding vitamins C, D and Zinc to your diet- These particular vitamins and minerals help boost your immune system, ward off infections and fight the winter blues and they can all be consumed through a whole- food nutrient dense diet!

https://share.upmc.com/2015/03/maintain-energy-nutrition-winter

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