7 foods that boost immunity before winter sets in

As

winter

approaches, it’s essential to prepare not only with warm clothes and blankets but also with a diet plan to stay healthy and warm. The colder months can worsen conditions like arthritis and skin issues such as dryness and eczema. A strong immunity in winter is not just to prevent us from falling sick but also to maintain our skin, hair, and joint health. Individuals with arthritis dread winters because as the temperatures dip, their joint pains increase. Similarly, skin dryness, eczema, and psoriasis breakouts get worse during winters Experts recommend including specific

superfoods

in your

winter diet

, as stated below:

Ghee

Drizzle a spoonful of ghee over your rice or coat your chapatis with a generous amount of ghee during these transition months. Ghee is a highly digestible fat that generates heat and keeps the body warm. Pure and ethically sourced A2 ghee is one of the most easily digestible fats that is capable of generating instant heat and energy to keep your body warm.

Sweet potatoes

Have sweet potatoes as a hearty breakfast option or as a salad. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. Regular consumption can help in curing constipation, building immunity, and may reduce inflammation.

Amla

Amla, packed with vitamin C, helps in preventing infections. You can have amla in the form of murabba, pickles, candies, chutneys, juice, or eat as is with a sprinkle of black pepper powder. One can also enjoy amla candies, but make sure they don’t contain as much sugar.

Dates and jaggery

Dates are beneficial for arthritis patients and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibers. They are particularly beneficial for arthritis patients.

Jaggery

, a healthy sugar alternative, possesses warming properties and is rich in iron. Jaggery also acts as a powerful lung cleanser and can benefit people living in high pollution and winter smog zones.

Millets

Millets, such as ragi and

bajra

, are low-glycemic and high in fiber. They strengthen the joints, heal any infections, and fill the body with energy. Essentially, all millets available during the winter months should be included in your diet

Nuts

If you need a boost to your immune system, snack on nuts. Easily available nuts, including almonds and walnuts, lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. They are versatile and can be included in your diet in many forms. You can sprinkle them over salads, add them to desserts, or eat them as a roasted mix.

Mustard leaves

Mustard leaves, or Sarso ka saag, paired with makke ki roti, provide heat and are loaded with antioxidants. The combination is not only very delicious but loaded with powerful antioxidants. Including this green superfood in your winter diet can help maintain overall health and prevent common issues associated with the cold season.