Here are six foods and drinks to keep the body warm during winters:
1. The good old adrak wali chai
One of the best ways of keeping the body warm during winter is by having a piping hot cup of ginger tea.
According to a study, first published in HHS Author Manuscript, ginger shows thermogenic properties that help in raising the body temperature of humans and also has satiety-inducing effects on them.
2. Coffee lovers, rejoice!
Any warm beverage helps to kick-start the internal heating mechanism. However, caffeine in coffee releases fatty acids, which help in heating the body from within.
A study conducted by the University of Colorado Boulder suggests that caffeine ingestion is associated with an increased core body temperature.
3. Binge on those root veggies
Vegetables like radish, turnip and sweet potatoes that grow below the ground keep the body warm. The body requires more time to digest these vegetables, which in turn generates more heat.
4. The three-ingredient wonder drink- Honey and cinnamon in warm milk
Cinnamon has warming properties and is an antioxidant, which helps in fighting symptoms of cold and flu. Whereas, honey reduces cough symptoms in winter and improves sleep.
These two ingredients mixed in milk help keep the body warm. Milk in itself is a storehouse of protein, vitamins A and B12 and calcium, which has beneficial effects on the body, reveals National Healthcare Service, UK.
5. Include red meat in diet
Red meat like mutton or lamb is a good source of iron. Iron helps carry oxygen throughout the body.
A study, published in PubMed, cites that poor temperature regulation in both human and animal models has been associated with iron deficiency.
Eating red meat supplies the body with vitamin B12, which contributes to healthy nerves and a strong immune system.
6. Bring out that dabba of nuts
Almonds, peanuts, walnuts, pistachios or cashews are known to increase the warmth in the body within a short duration of consumption. Nuts help in speeding up metabolism, thus increasing body temperature.
A study, published in the journal Nutrition & Metabolism, showed that food rich in protein like nuts increase the thermic effect of food, which further boost the metabolic rate of the body.
These easily available ingredients and handy food and drinks are sure to work wonders.
