SAfter a pleasant December, January has brought the wintry cold with it. To counteract the low temperatures, we suggest fighting them from within with foods that will provide a caloric surplus without affecting the numbers on the bathroom scale. And as the cherry on top, we’ll let you in on our top trick for maintaining your skin’s hydration. Keep reading to find out how to cope with the cold in the best possible way.
During winter, our bodies want us to consume more calories, which is why the season’s traditional foods are substantial and energy dense (for example: casseroles, stews and legumes). However, it’s also true that our work is not as demanding at this time of year, and the temperatures in our homes and workplaces remain comfortable thanks to central heating (sometimes they can even be too high). So although we need some extra calories compared to autumn and spring, the difference is not that significant. Which is why we suggest that you increase healthy fats (such as Omega-3) or slightly boost your consumption of carbohydrates (like pasta or rice).
Here’s something you probably already know. During the coldest days of winter, warm soups and purées can make us feel great, while also helping us to hydrate (since we generally drink less water at this time of year). Broths and soups are a great way to maintain the right body temperature.
This potent trio of vegetables is a powerful way to strengthen your immune system. They can be added to nearly any meal to provide antioxidant, antibiotic (in the case of garlic) and antirheumatic properties.
Ginger is probably the least well-known, but it can be your strongest ally in the fight against cold, as it has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. We suggest including it in your morning smoothie or fruit juice (but it can also be added to stews, roasts or when preparing sweet desserts).
We understand that it’s harder to drink water during the winter. You don’t feel as hot, so you don’t feel the need to lower your body temperature (exactly the opposite, in fact!). This means it can be easy to forget to provide your body with the fluids it needs.
If you want to maintain adequate hydration in your body while showing off your skin’s healthy and radiant appearance, don’t forget to consume enough fluids. If water doesn’t sound very appealing, try juices or smoothies which, in addition to providing hydration, are packed with vitamins that will strengthen your immune system. If, in addition to hydration, you also want to keep warm—try hot teas. If you’ve got a cold they can also help to relieve a sore throat and nasal congestion, and, depending on the tea you choose, you will also benefit from the diuretic, antioxidant or expectorant properties.
While it’s important to consume fruit throughout the year, this is especially true when it’s cold. Oranges, mandarins… and don’t forget kiwi, will help you to fight the low temperatures and the common cold. Vitamin C is also beneficial for your skin as it’s a powerful antioxidant that fights ageing, softens fine lines and minimises redness, making your complexion appear more radiant.
So now you know how to combat low temperatures and strengthen your body against flu, common colds and other respiratory conditions. And if you also maintain adequate hydration with soups, teas and juices, while adding a vitamin C boost to your diet, you can look gorgeous, radiant and hydrated without even trying.
Give it a go and let us know what you think of the results!
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