What foods and meals are you thinking about now that winter is almost here? Probably not that fresh meal salad or a delicious cold pasta salad, but rather stew or hachee. As soon as King Winter arrives, we get a craving for different food.
Apart from the stews we are all familiar with, casseroles, stews and pea soup are really typical winter dishes. So where does this come from? Why do we associate these dishes with winter and not summer?
Food affects winter dip
In the summer months, our body does not have to work as hard to maintain its core temperature. In the cold months, our body uses more energy to keep the internal heater burning. Another reason is that some people suffer from winter blues. It gets light later and dark faster, but we are also more likely to stay indoors because of the cold, inclement and wet weather. We sometimes sleep worse. We mull more and our ability to concentrate is less than in summer.
Our body uses more energy in winter
Because our bodies use more energy to regulate the temperature correctly, we are more likely to eat more. A winter dip can also result in a different eating pattern. However tempting it can sometimes be to reach for something tasty but unhealthy, it is actually important to watch your diet now. To give your body a positive boost, you should eat the right foods and get enough exercise.
Proper nutrition for boosting your resistance in winter.
So what are the right foods to eat during the winter months? We have a list for you of foods that should definitely be on your shopping list:
Omega 3 fats good for your mood
You can supplement this with additional food supplements, but it can also be done by consciously choosing other ingredients. For instance, instead of bread, choose oatmeal for breakfast. It is rich in protein, a large amount of fibre and folic acid (B11) also has a positive effect on your mood. Add a good scoop of flaxseed to your oatmeal, as it is particularly rich in Omega 3 fats. Another boost for your mood! Finally, dress up your oatmeal with some fresh fruit. Think banana and a handful of blueberries, always good for their antioxidants.
Oily fish
Like flaxseed, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, among others, are high in Omega 3 fats. These are of great value to your physical and mental condition during the winter months.
Root vegetables and tubers
Root vegetables and tubers like beets, carrots and turnips are freshly harvested and offer your body vitamin A and C for better resistance and more energy. You can use the vegetables not only for your evening meal, but also, for example, in a smoothie, burger or as vegetable chips.
Steaming, stir-frying or boiling Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts come from the cabbage family and are considered one of the most healthy vegetables. In fact, this little green ball is packed with vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre. Delicious for steaming, stir-frying or cooking.
Winter soups
Soup is a delicious and healthy comfort food, especially if you use broth as a base and add lots of vegetables. Then you feed your body with all kinds of healthy nutrients that help you stay healthy in winter.
Win-win and bye bye winter dip
Are you already getting excited about the winter menu? We are! Just like the prospect of a good piece of fresh salmon or smoked mackerel on the menu tonight. So jump on your bike, brave the wind and ride to your fishmonger for a piece of oily fish. Yummy as hell! Have your exercise 'in the pocket' immediately. Win-win and bye bye winter dip.
Need help boosting your resistance? Friskfysio can help!
Could you use help putting together a nutrition plan? Visit contact with us and ask about our nutritionist. We are happy to help you boost your resistance as the temperature drops.
