Many turn to warm beverages like tea, hot chocolate, or apple cider as the temperature dips. These drinks not only keep us warm but also provide our body with some surprising health benefits. From immunity-boosting green tea to comforting golden turmeric latte, these healthy winter drinks help you fend off the chill while keeping your health in mind.
Consuming cold foods and beverages can lower our core temperature, making the body feel chilly and causing us to feel weak due to low blood circulation. Warming foods and beverages can directly increase our body temperature by providing a source of external heat. This makes them the best choice for fighting colds and preventing winter flu. Here are a few of the best options to keep you toasty and hydrated this season:
The warmth of ginger root can help fight off infections, improve digestion, boost energy levels, and relieve nausea. It is also loaded with antioxidants, which make it a perfect immune-boosting drink. Adding a pinch of black pepper and cardamom to the drink can help enhance its taste while adding more health benefits.
Lemons and other citrus fruits are a powerhouse of vitamin C, which not only helps boost immunity but also improves skin and hair health. They are rich in nutrients and ripen at their sweetest in the winter, which makes them an ideal choice to keep your system warm and healthy. You can consume lemon water in the morning or add it to your favorite herbal tea to enjoy its benefits.
Another healthy option is a mug of fresh-pressed fruit juice. This cold-pressed juice combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with its powerful nutrients to create a delicious and healthy drink. It is best to opt for low-sugar and low-salt fruits like berries or apples and avoid sugary syrups and iced drinks as much as possible.
Kadha tea is a traditional Indian drink used as a home remedy for various winter-related issues, including nasal congestion, cough, cold, and sore throat. It contains spices and herbs like cloves, cinnamon, tulsi leaves, and finely chopped ginger that have been proven to have a warming effect on the body. It also has anti-microbial properties that can prevent tooth decay and strengthen gums.
Add a dash of alcohol to your favorite warm beverage to boost the winter spirit. However, it is essential to remember that excess alcohol can lead to an increase in the body’s temperature and dehydrate you. So, it is essential to limit your intake of alcoholic beverages to moderate amounts.