When the weather outside is frightful, it can be tough not to pack on some pounds. The general gloominess always seems to get the best of us.
Between a lack of activity and the ability to cover ourselves up in deceptive layers, we're all guilty of adding a little winter weight.
Of course, feeling good is even more important than looking good. Unfortunately, our moods more often than not end up reflecting the weather.
It can be easy to shut yourself inside in the winter and not pay very much attention to what you put in your mouth.
However, certain foods you can find at your grocery store have been proven to help beat the many symptoms of winter blues.
So, instead of letting the weather get the best of you, learn about the ways you can improve your health and well being by strategically eating these winter foods that will not disappoint.
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1. Clementines
Clementines are a staple during Christmastime.
According to Food Network, these little orange balls of goodness are in their peak season from October to January.
Not only are they some of the freshest fruit you can get, they are also packed with vitamin C, which we all know is essential for boosting your immune system when it's cold outside.
2. Yogurt
Exposure to the elements in the winter often results in dry skin that's hard to soothe
Other than moisturizing regularly, the food you eat can also has positive skin benefits.
Yogurt contains fermented milk, which can help make your skin supple and healthy.
A study reported by World Health found that groups of women who ate yogurt for four weeks showed much higher levels of skin hydration than those who didn't. This means adding yogurt to your diet might help fight dryness and tightness.
3. Eggs
Eggs are a bit of a superfood, so it shouldn't be surprising that they're good for you.
With that said, they are a lot more than just a great source of protein. Eggs are a good source of the mineral selenium, according to a study reported by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Selenium is essential for immune-system health and also shares properties with collagen, which keeps your skin in tip-top shape.
4. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is another fruit that we often associate with the holiday season.
Not only are the seeds of this fruit delicious, they are also packed with vitamin C, according to Nutrition Data. In fact, one of these fruits supplies 48% of your daily needs.
Instead of drinking a vitamin C booster, just reach for a pomegranate!
5. Avocado
Chances are, you don't need to be told to eat more avocados because they are delicious on their own.
However, munching on some guacamole might be even more delicious after learning how it can get you through the winter.
Avocado is packed with folic acid, which according to Healthline has been found to contain mood-boosting elements.
6. Licorice
Some people love licorice while others can't bear the sight of it.
If you belong to the first group, you might want to stock up on it this winter.
According to Natural News, licorice root has the power to give you more energy and reduce stress.
This is because licorice root helps support your adrenal gland, which is known to burn out easily due to stress. Moreover, adrenal burnout causes fatigue, which is another winter symptom many of us battle.
7. Beets
Beets are known for containing a rich, red natural dye that can make a mess.
However, if you manage to be tidy while you enjoy your beets, you could experience a lot of health benefits this winter.
As with most produce, beets contain a lot of vitamins and minerals that help fend off illness and promote overall health.
More importantly, beets are known as a healthy source of slow-burning carbohydrates, according to Organic Facts.
Therefore, beets are the perfect addition to stay energized all day, even when the weather is taking it out of you.
8. Sweet Potatoes
There is no comfort food better than potatoes in the winter. However, if you're trying to be as healthy as possible, there is an even better (and sweeter) alternative — sweet potatoes.
According to Precision Nutrition, sweet potatoes are lower in calories and carbohydrates, while they are higher in vitamin A and C.
9. Walnuts
Walnuts aren't always the type of nuts we reach for, but they should probably be at the top of your list in cold weather.
Walnuts are not only delicious and festive, they are also essential for nervous system health, according to dietician Marjorie Nolan Cohn.
10. Oatmeal
You are probably well aware that oatmeal is extremely good for your health.
Enjoying a warm bowl of oatmeal in the winter isn't just comforting, it might also be just what you need to make it through the day.
WebMD explains that oatmeal is high in fiber, which helps you feel fuller for longer throughout the day. This makes it easier to avoid cravings and keep off that winter weight.
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