Healthy Foods to Eat This Winter
By Sara Butler
Winter is, unfortunately, right around the corner. But try not to despair too much, because with a new season comes all new foods for you to try. Winter isn’t often associated with fresh foods, but there are some fruits and vegetables harvested during the season that are healthy and delicious. Here are a few winter foods to put on your list this year.
Oranges
Oranges aren’t only for people who live in Florida. You can find oranges in stock everywhere in the winter months. They’re full of fiber and Vitamin C that helps to keep your immune system functioning well and your heart healthy. They can even lower your risk of respiratory ailments and improve the health of your skin.
Rutabagas
Rutabagas simply don’t get enough love. This root is nutty and sweet -- kind of like a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. They’re really high in antioxidants and are also loaded with Vitamin C, fiber, Vitamin B6, manganese, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and thiamin. They’re an excellent addition to stews and soups and adding them to a winter salad is always a great and nutritious idea.
Butternut Squash
Pumpkin gets a lot of love in the fall and winter, but butternut squash is just as good for you. It’s full of vitamins, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and manganese to help reduce inflammation, support a healthy immune system, and strengthen your bones. It’s an excellent addition to any winter meal and is easily found in the produce aisle.
Escarole
This vegetable may not be something you recognize right away, but you should work to get to know it. It’s a member of the chicory family that helps to provide fiber, Vitamin B9, antioxidants, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. Some research has even found that escarole can help reduce cholesterol and glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. You can eat this leafy green cooked or raw.
Cabbage
Cabbage is inexpensive and easy to find all year long, but the best part about it is that it’s full of fiber and Vitamin C to keep you healthy this winter. It helps to reduce inflammation, support your immune system, and keep your bones strong. Serve it raw, sautéed, or even steamed.
Don't despair that summer is over. Instead, look forward to all the incredible and healthy foods a new season brings!
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