Did you know that winter is the best season to improve immunity? Amazingly, seasonal fruits and vegetables aids in providing more nourishment to the body.
Although modern day food processing techniques have made all fruits and vegetables available throughout the year, there are benefits with consuming seasonal fruits in the specific season. Seasonal fruits are grown naturally and are exposed to less chemicals/pesticides. Therefore, are healthier.
In winter, you need to make sure his/her diet is filled with nutritious and vitamin-packed items. The best balance is one-third protein and two-thirds vegetables and fruits. Below points will help you chart a meal that will make your child stay warm and healthy during the winter.
Seasonal fruits
Seasonal changes are a fantastic time to introduce some new foods into his diet. Seasonal fruits are of high water content which stimulates appetite and it will give your baby that boost of Vitamin C he/she needs to fight off a cold. Citrus fruits, being high in vitamins such as vitamin A and C these fruits help in boosting immunity. They also prevent illnesses that are common in winter such as cold and flu.
Underground/rooted fruits and vegetables
Any vegetable that in which the edible part grows beneath the surface of the ground is usually warming Underground vegetables like carrot, potato, onions, garlic, radish, yams, sweet potatoes, beets, turnips, etc, are good to keep your body warm.
Green vegetables
Dark Green leafy vegetables like spinach, mint leaves, fenugreek leaves, etc. are a good source of beta-carotene, folate and vitamin C – that help fight disease and step up your immunity.
Protein-rich diet
Whole grain cereals and pulses have high energy and protein required to keep your energy levels up during winter. If you’re bringing up your child as non-vegan you can, meat is best to fill his protein requirement.
Dried fruits
Dried fruits are winter super foods. They provide you all the required nutrients, vitamins and heat thus forming a good source of energy. For children, they work well to satisfy a sweet craving.
Spices, seeds, and herbs
Mustard, hing, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, fenugreek, ajwain seeds are all warm spices that gives protection against colds and fever, stimulates digestion and helps strengthen immunity.
Choose from all forms
Into your daily meal plans, include a handful of nuts in the breakfast, use veggies in the main course and add some slices of fruits to your snack time. Most importantly, make it look appealing to your child.
