Winter Diet Tips for Healthy Living –

Winter has arrived and with colder temperatures it is not uncommon for your mood and metabolism to hit a low point. Skin, nails and hair may become dull and dry. It is important to know how you can deal with the winter blues and take care of your health during these months.

There is a tendency to overeat or seek comfort foods at this time of year. Recognising this allows us to be prepared when cravings strike by having healthier options at the ready. Combining healthy food options, consistent exercise and a skin care ritual every morning and night will not just make you feel better, your skin will glow with vitality.

As a Practitioner, I am often asked ‘What are your best winter tips for healthy living?’ I am always committed to making a difference in my patients’ health. I also like to share strategies with you for achieving a resilient metabolism that helps you navigate the hormonal shifts and changes women experience as they age. That goes for men too by the way!

 For women, changes in hormones throughout the month and particularly as they age, create a need to replenish lost collagen and elasticity in the skin. Colder temperatures and dryness also take their toll on the skin which creates a double whammy during the winter.

TOP WINTER NUTRITION TIPS TO HELP WITH WINTER CRAVINGS

Breakfast

• Eat plant protein early in the day, instead of carb-rich breakfast foods.
• Nuts or nut butters, hummus, or a smoothie with protein powder, chia and flax, sunflower or pumpkin seeds will keep you satisfied longer. Plant protein is also rich in phytoestrogens which help the skin glow.
• Eat whole fruit instead of drinking fruit juice. This prevents sugar jolts.
• Add energy sustaining fibre to your diet. Berries are a great choice as they are naturally loaded with nutrients as well as being a good source of antioxidants.

Lunch & Dinner

• Look for savoury options loaded with fibre-rich plant protein such as lentils and legumes in a hearty soup, stew or chilli.
• Spices such as turmeric, cumin and cinnamon will keep you warm and often contain phytoestrogen molecules to boost your calorie burning potential.
• Try brown basmati rice or quinoa instead of white starches like potatoes and white rice.
• Deep coloured vegetables like brussel sprouts, artichokes, asparagus, kale, broccoli and cabbage are prebiotic and full of vitamins that support collagen, both to help your waist line and skin.
• Bone broth is a rich source of collagen.

Digestives

• After a meal enjoy a calming cup of herbal tea – peppermint, fennel or chamomile. They all contain natural virus-fighting molecules called tannins and the ‘zen effect’ of the warm drink can ease cravings.
• Remember to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated as dehydration is one of the main causes of overeating.