The winter season can be challenging for our immune systems. The sudden dip in temperature might feel like a pleasant change at first, but if your body isn’t prepared, things could go south very fast. Most of us are aware of winter foods that help us power through the season without falling ill, but what about foods that are probably doing the opposite? To ensure that you’re not only eating the right winter foods but also avoiding the ones that aren’t necessarily good for you for the colder months, we've listed five foods you should avoid during winter.
Winter Foods To Avoid
1. Dairy Products
If you’re a big fan of dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt, it’s best to put a break on their consumption during winter. Dairy products, especially cold ones, are not considered healthy winter foods as they have a tendency of thickening the mucus in the body. Consuming dairy products when you’re already suffering from congestion, cough, or cold is a strict no. Even generally, it’s best to avoid these foods during winter as they might make you more prone to catching a cold and falling ill.
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2. Raw Vegetables
Ideally, you should stick to vegetables and fruits that are grown during the winter season. However, it’s best to avoid raw vegetables because digesting them can be difficult for the body. During winter, your body needs energy to keep warm. Consuming raw vegetables invariably makes your body use more energy digesting it, which isn’t ideal. This doesn’t mean that you should completely stop having salads in winter. Just make sure that your winter salads are prepared using vegetables that are sauteed, steamed, or baked.
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3. Chilled Aerated Drinks
When curating a list of winter drinks that are safe to consume, definitely avoid chilled aerated drinks. Drinking beverages straight from the refrigerator are a big no during winter. Also, consuming drinks that are sugary during winter might lead to insulin resistance in the body, further lowering your immunity and causing you to fall ill. Stick to the warm cuppas and you’ll get through the season without a hiccup.
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4. Summer Fruits
Whether it’s a strawberry in summer or melon in winter, fruits are no longer as seasonal as they used to be. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s safe to consume them. During winter, try to avoid fruits like tomatoes, strawberries, peaches, and blueberries as they aren’t seasonal and have probably been preserved for long durations before reaching your kitchen table. Consuming fruits that are artificially grown or loaded with preservatives is also not good for your immune system during any season. Oranges, pomegranates, guavas, and apples are excellent winter fruits to ensure that your immunity is at its best.
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5. Pakoras And Other Fried Foods
On a cold winter evening, a plate of piping hot deep-fried aloo pakoras can feel like a warm hug. It’s pretty much the perfect winter snack! However, what feels good on the outside might not necessarily be good for your body. Fried food or dishes that are loaded with ghee might lead to indigestion and other issues. The high-fat content in such food items can also lead to increased mucus production and inflammation in the body. Hence, stick to simple, balanced home meals that provide all the right nutrients your body needs.
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The Right Foods For The Winter Season
Now that we’ve covered what not to eat during winter, here’s a list of some nutritious food items that can keep your body warm and healthy even during the harshest winter.
1. Dry Fruits
Dry fruits like dates, apricots, walnuts, and almonds are a good source of natural warmth. They’re also great healthy winter snacks.
2. Soups
Don’t forget to include vegetable soups in your winter diet plan for weight loss as soups are easy to make, they’re healthy, delicious, and warm.
3. Tulsi And Ginger
A little bit of tulsi and ginger in your tea every morning will ensure that your immunity is at its best throughout the season.
4. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are more nutritious than your regular potatoes. They can reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and improve digestion.
