Keep the sniffles at bay

It’s that time of the year where there is a slight nip in the air. The blazers, shawls and jackets are out of our closets to deal with the chill. However, with the winters come sniffy, runny noses, and a series of the viral flus and chest congestions.

As the November chill sets in, so does our energy level drop low. But instead of reaching for the flu tablets, there are ways to boost one’s immunity during winter. Nutritionist and health consultant Karishma Chawla says, “One can indulge in warm food, which is loaded with proteins and fibrous vegetables to keep the body warm. Immunity booster foods like green leafy veggies, broccoli, parsley, bell peppers, papaya, sesame seeds, pumpkin and poultry should be consumed liberally since these are rich in antioxidants.”

Nutritionist Suman Agarwal explains that soups go a long way to warm you up on a cold winter night. “Chicken broth — throwing some chicken and vegetables into a pot and letting them simmer — is one way to gain up on some nutrients,” she states.

The cold weather brings a drop in one’s body temperature, which makes one hungry. While one wants to keep the body warm, it could also serve as an excuse to indulge in fatty foods. “Peanuts, roasted sesame seeds and even ghee are a good option. One can opt for til ladoos, or just sprinkle them over salads and soups,” explains Suman.

Using natural herbs and spices is another option to keep the body healthy during winter. A treasure trove of good health, spices can help keep the body warm and boost immunity. Turmeric cinnamon latte, peppery soups, ginger juices and fresh garlic dressings are some of the common examples of healthy immunity boosting combinations. “These are natural metabolism boosters and help us lose weight easily when consumed in the right combinations, quantities and preparations,” notes nutritionist Tripti Gupta.

Suman shares a recipe of a drink called the Miracle Juice, which can be a part of the every day diet. She explains, “Add ½ boiled beetroot, ½ apple, 2 small carrots, 1 tomato, 1 amla, a pinch of fresh raw turmeric and ½ pomegranate seeds. Juice these together and drink it immediately,” she advises.

You cannot fight the winter without being fit. Tripti advises spot jogging for the sluggish individual. “No matter what time you wake up, include a 15-minute jogs on the spot and repeat the same just before sleeping. This naturally stimulates the metabolism and removes the lethargy out of the body instantly.”

Healthy bites

• Chicken broth is one way to gain up on some nutrients
• One can opt for til ladoos, or just sprinkle them over salads and soups
• Turmeric cinnamon latte, peppery soups, ginger juices and fresh garlic dressings are some of the common examples of healthy immunity boosting combinations.