Ayurveda-approved winter superfoods to boost your immunity

Nov 30, 2020 18:34 IST

As the winds get cooler and the nights get shorter, the body, too, has to adjust itself to the change in weather. The drop in temperature is an important sign for us to realign our body with the environment. It is helpful to change your routine and diet to keep your mind and soul in tune with the transitional weather. Lucky for us, Ayurveda offers a treasure trove of advice when it comes to eating based on nature's calendar. For a stronger immunity that can help you fight off colds, have jaggery or 'gur' regularly in winter. Jaggery is loaded with antioxidants and minerals like iron, zinc and selenium. From gur ke laddus to jaggery pedas, there's plenty of delicious ways to have it! During winters, your body needs more fat to maintain insulation as well as repair and heal itself for the next season. Load up on ghee that rich in omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin A. The fats in ghee are great for your colon and helps keep your digestive health in check as well. If you're not a fan of ghee, there are plenty other great sources of healthy fats. Look towards sunflower, pumpkin, sesame and flaxseeds to get your fat intake. Walnuts and almonds are great winter-friendly fat sources as well. Winters are synonymous with achaars and for good reason. The fermentation process supports gut microbial immunity during the winter months. Fermented veggies also keep you warm so feel free to add some pickled onion or chillies to your lunch plate! Winters are a good time to have root vegetables. Whether its beets, carrots or sweet potatoes, these underground veggies are loaded with nutrients ranging from vitamin C, vitamin A, minerals and a ton of fibre! The cold months can sometimes feel a little depressing. But luckily, you can easily spice up your routine with a healthy mix of spices that Ayurveda recommends for winter consumption. Include asafoetida, raw turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, fennel and of course, everyone's winter favourite, cinnamon in your diet to keep your body healthy in winters.