Winter superfoods to boost energy and keep you warm

Our bodies require different nutrients and foods during the winter months to keep healthy, energised, and warm. As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, we must incorporate nutritious superfoods into our diet to maintain good health and wellbeing.

Here are five winter superfoods you should incorporate into your diet to boost energy and vitality to keep you warm.

Maca root

Maca root is an adaptogen known for its energy-boosting properties and ability to warm the body. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, maca supports overall health and vitality. It’s particularly effective in enhancing stamina and combating fatigue. You can incorporate maca powder into your routine by:

• Adding a teaspoon to your morning smoothie
• Stirring it into your oatmeal
• Blending it with warm milk and honey for a comforting drink

Millets

Millets are highly nutritious grains packed with fibre and complex carbohydrates. They provide sustained energy and improve digestion, which makes them perfect for hearty winter meals. Millets are also excellent for keeping you warm from the inside out by offering a long-lasting source of fuel for your body. For a delicious way to enjoy millets, try:

• Cooking them into a porridge for breakfast
• Adding them to soups and stews
• Using millet flour in baking for a nutritious twist on traditional recipes

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, cashews, and flaxseeds are energy powerhouses. They offer healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients that support warmth and vitality. Regular consumption of nuts can help you to maintain your energy levels and overall wellbeing during winter. Here’s how to easily incorporate them into your diet:

• Snack on a handful of mixed nuts
• Sprinkle chia seeds or flaxseeds over salads and yogurt
• Add chopped nuts to your favourite warm dishes for added crunch and nutrition

Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. They support immune health, enhance skin vitality, and help maintain energy levels. The zesty flavours of citrus fruits can brighten up your winter meals and drinks by adding a refreshing touch to them. To make the most of citrus fruits, consider:

• Squeezing fresh lemon juice into warm water for a revitalising drink
• Adding orange segments to salads for a burst of flavour
• Using citrus zest to enhance the taste of baked goods and desserts

Wattleseed

Wattleseed is packed with protein and fibre. It provides sustained energy and helps maintain warmth and satiety during the colder months. Its nutty, earthy flavour makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savoury dishes. You can use it by:

• Stirring wattleseed into porridge for a nutritious breakfast
• Adding it to soups and stews for more depth of flavour
• Using it in baking to create wholesome, energy-boosting treats