Winter is the time to...

Winter is definitely here and with only 2 weeks to go, i think it is colder this year than it has been for some time.  Interestingly, the flue this year is also a piece of work, that has taken a few by surprise.

Traditionally, winter is the time in nature when the plants, and animals are taking things slowly in taking stock to prepare for the super fast growth of spring, so to with us.  Think about how you feel in winter.  What types of foods you look for - generally comfort, warming foods that seem to put on the weight - casseroles, soups, roasts, chips, hot chocolate and the like.  We also tend not to be so active, again the shorter days, and less sun makes it less than appealing to venture out.

The helpful side of nature though is that it also provides us with some super helpful fruit and vegetables at this time of the year. High in vitamin C, Zinc, fibre, bright colored fruit and vegetables and the like all help fight colds and flues by supporting the immune system.

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The nutrients and compounds in this seasons produce are also fantastic to prepare for the detoxing effects of spring. With only a few weeks to go, it is the time to keep boosting your body with fortifying fruit, vegetables and warming spices.  

So, when you are looking for warming ideas that are going to help the immune system fight that nasty cold, warm you against the cold, think of Indian Curries; Moroccan Spiced dishes and strong South Pacific Island cuisines - traditional that is.  Add garlic, fennel, and coriander to food.  Use lots of citrus, nuts, They all give the punch, warm you up and help start the detox process.  A word of warning though, if you are not used to eating these, then you may have a really 'clean out' so introduce these new foods before you have some time out, this way, if you do 'clean the pipes' you will be close to one.


For some powerful recipe ideas I suggest you go back the Other Helpers page and click on Green Smoothie & Yoga's page or taste.com.au or even click the fruit above to take you to the Sydney Markets page.

Happy Eating and to your health.