In the chill of winter, when days are short and energy levels dip, comfort food often calls. But comfort doesn't have to mean unhealthy. You can nourish your body and soul with meals that provide sustained energy and promote well-being. Here are seven healthy comfort foods to power you through energetic days:
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Oatmeal: Start your day with a warm bowl of steel-cut oats. This breakfast staple is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and gut-friendly probiotics to keep you full and energized. The high fiber content aids heart health, manages blood sugar, and lowers cholesterol. Add berries, nuts, seeds, or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor and nutrients.
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Soup: A bowl of homemade minestrone soup can be a hug in a mug. A homemade version is packed with beneficial antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support healthy aging, as well as vitamins and protein. Add lean proteins like poultry. Beans, peas, and lentils are packed with protein and fiber.
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Sweet Potatoes: This southern classic is hard to turn away with its sweet glaze and enticing taste. Pack more of this versatile and filling veg into mealtimes with sweet potato and lentil curry. A vibrant low-calorie vegan dinner idea, it's made with coconut milk and plenty of spices.
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Fatty Fish: Incorporate fatty fish like salmon, swordfish, tuna, or mackerel into your diet. These are excellent sources of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for bone health, brain function, and overall well-being. Try a vibrant curried salmon dish is full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants – great for maintaining a healthy mind and skin.
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Chicken Stew: Another stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal is stew. The chicken in this recipe adds vitamin B6 for aiding red blood cell production and reducing inflammation. Also try chicken noodle soup.
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Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds contain unsaturated fats, fiber, and protein, making them both nutritious and filling. The types and amounts of nutrients in nuts and seeds vary between them, so try to eat a variety of them to ensure a wider nutrition profile.
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Collard Greens: While often thought to be high in salt, collard greens are rich in a plethora of naturally beneficial properties. Dark green leafy vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Folate, Potassium, Iron, and Calcium.
