Winter’s chilly temperatures bring a number of bothersome health conditions with them. To ward against illness and preserve the health of one’s skin, hair, and joints, one must have a strong immune system. For those who have arthritis, the winters are particularly difficult because as the temperatures drop, joint problems worsen. Eczema flare-ups, psoriasis, and other skin conditions are worse in the winter. In addition to respiratory ailments, the winter can be difficult for people with cardiac conditions. Our hearts must beat twice as hard to maintain blood flow and keep our bodies warm as the outside temperature lowers.
Low temperatures can occasionally cause blood vessels to constrict, which reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. Therefore, it’s crucial to select foods that will complement and counteract the winter chill.
Our energy levels, metabolism, and even dietary choices change in cold weather, according to Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi, chief nutritionist at Apollo Hospitals. Therefore, she argues, it’s crucial to eat food that can both keep us warm from the inside and replenish the vital nutrients that the winters might deprive us of.
a list of heart-healthy staples for the winter
The following are some heart-healthy wintertime staple foods:
1) Broccoli is a great meal to consume to ward off the winter flu since it is so high in vitamins and antioxidants. Broccoli is a fantastic food for heart health because it contains fiber, fatty acids, and vitamins that assist to control blood pressure in the body.
2) Sweet potatoes and carrots: The body receives potassium from sweet potato and carrot juice, an important mineral that is good for your cardiovascular system. Potassium helps to reduce hypertension, which is excellent for heart health generally. Carrots and sweet potatoes also have advantages beyond heart health. The body transforms beta-carotene, which is plentiful in carrots and yams, into vitamin A, which is essential for shielding our eyes from the sun and preserving eye health. Regular carrot eating can also help prevent cataracts and Yams, which provide beta-carotene, antioxidants, and fiber, are a better option than normal potatoes.
3) Citrus-based foods: Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which fortifies immunity and shields our systems from germs and viruses. Citrus fruits include a variety of chemicals that may support heart health, according to WebMD. Their flavonoids and soluble fiber may boost good HDL cholesterol and decrease bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Citrus fruits include potassium, which can help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. The fruits can also lower excessive blood pressure.
4) Oats: A well-known dietary staple that is also a fantastic winter snack. Because it is loaded with antioxidants, contains a ton of soluble fiber, is incredibly nutritious, and is also healthy for the heart, this cereal grain is fantastic for warding off common diseases like the flu.
5) Pomegranates: Elders and medical professionals recommend pomegranates as a healthy winter fruit that may be enjoyed in a number of ways all season long. Additionally, they are rich in antioxidants and essential minerals like iron, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium, all of which are beneficial for heart health.
6) Red Capsicum/Bell Pepper: Red capsicum includes a lot of carotenoids, which have been connected to decreasing blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, and even lowering the risk of cancer.
