Winter is a beautiful time of the year, but those allergies and illnesses can get you down. It might seem like every other person is coming down with a cold, the flu, or an allergy attack. This tendency could be due to a weakened immune system, especially with all the indoor allergens to deal with. That’s why it’s wise to visit the best ENT doctors in Shelton just before the colder winds start blowing.
Fortunately, there are ways to boost your immune system and ensure a healthier winter this time around. Before you reach for the allergy or cold medication, take a look at these amazing foods that could help to stave off the winter dangers:
1. Citrus Fruits Every Day
Citrus fruits contain a large amount of vitamin C, which you need to stave off illnesses in the wintertime. In fact, other seasonal fruits and vegetables will also have the same healthy effect. There’s a reason why oranges are in season this time of the year.
You can also get your dose of vitamin C from red peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, etc. However, orange or mandarin is easy to add to your meals.
2. The Versatile Porridge
Porridge may seem like a boring option for breakfast, but it’s the slow-release energy food we need to keep us fueled till lunchtime. Plus, you can always snazzy up this meal with some berries, sliced bananas, and a drizzle of honey. This would up the flavor as well as the health benefits of this food. Other topping suggestions include nuts, seeds, dates, apples, cranberries, and pears.
With this energy-inducing meal, you'll be able to stay active and follow a healthy lifestyle. This is one of the most important steps for being as healthy as possible this winter.
3. Spinach in Every Form
Spinach is a great source of zinc, which is necessary for fighting viruses that might cause the flu or those common colds. You need to make sure that your immune system is functioning at the optimal level, so foods like these are a must. You can also get a good amount of zinc from legumes and oysters.
We recommend spinach especially because it’s so easy to use in various ways. You can blend it in a smoothie, cook it up in a creamy soup, or use it in a delicious stir-fry meal.
4. Foods With Vitamin B12
Our bodies require a decent dose of vitamin B12 to function with good health. Unfortunately, we can’t produce the best levels on our own, so fish, cheese, eggs, and other sources of vitamin B12 come to the rescue.
Consuming these in generous amounts this winter will make your immune system strong, staving off those pesky illnesses. Plus, you’ll also be less likely to experience fatigue.
5. Root Vegetables
Root veggies make for great soups, which can easily replace those sugary or high-sodium comfort foods this winter. Sipping on these soups will also be good for maintaining a healthy weight this winter, which is ideal for both looking and feeling good.
You can also try roasting your root vegetables for a change. This process will also result in a sweet-tasting meal, which could curb your sugary cravings. If you season the soups and vegetables with ginger and garlic, you’ll have an immunity-boosting meal every single time.
The Takeaway
Eating the right foods and taking precautions will make your winter much more enjoyable this year. Besides visiting the doctor, you’ll be able to get the reassurance that your winter allergy symptoms are nothing serious. However, you should also know that consistency is the key. Adopting a healthy lifestyle throughout winters will help you achieve quick results.
