A nutritionist has revealed the 10 foods we should all be consuming during winter to boost our immunity and burn fat faster.
When the colder months roll around people tend to opt for comfort foods and ditch the early morning workouts for lazy sleep ins.
With flu, colds, and insulin resistance in the body slowing down our metabolism due to the colder temperatures, Australians gain on average three kilos during winter.
Nutritionist and Slim by Nature’s founder, Zhanna Gee, shares her top 10 foods that will not only help with weight loss but also keep the winter lurgy at bay.
Nutritionist and Slim by Nature’s founder, Zhanna Gee, shares her top 10 foods that will not only blast away fat this winter, but also keep the winter lurgy at bay
Oranges
According to Zhanna an orange is both a prevention and a cure.
‘Oranges are a godsend fruit. On top of being a delicious snack that can help satisfy almost any sweet-tooth, it may also help in fighting viruses, rehydrate, and help repair tissue,’ she told FEMAIL.
‘Aside from it being a powerhouse fruit for the body’s protection and maintenance, it also has a low calorie count making it a go-to snack for weight-watchers during winter.’
Kale
‘This cruciferous vegetable packs a heavy dosage of vitamins critical for the body’s immune system,’ Zhanna said.
‘It has a certain bulk to its build leaving you feeling full and satisfied while having a low calorie count.’
Not only is Kale a game changer for those looking to lose some weight, it is also jam packed with essential vitamins and nutrients which can help protect the body during the colder seasons.
It is rich in folate and vitamin K and is also an excellent source of vitamins A and C.
Not only is Kale a game changer for those looking to lose some weight, it is also jam packed with essential vitamins and nutrients which can help protect the body during the colder seasons
Yoghurt
Unsweetened and plain yoghurt is a healthy snack containing nutrients that promote the repair and reinforcement of the bones.
It also keeps the digestive system in check and gives the immune system a significant boost.
‘This snack is one to take especially for those lazy winter days on the couch,’ she said.
Garlic
Garlic a versatile vegetables that can be included in almost any dish and not only will it enhance its flavour, it will pack in some nutrients.
It is the ultimate support ingredient bringing with it a staggering amount of health benefits with an incredibly low calorie count.
Unsweetened and plain yoghurt is a healthy snack containing nutrients that promote the repair and reinforcement of the bones
Manuka Honey and Green Tea
Green Tea and Manuka honey are good alone but when together, they create a weight loss powerhouse drink suitable for a cold winter morning.
Zhanna said they’re also a great combination for health benefits.
‘The sweetness of the honey complements the tea’s innate bitter taste without compromising the nutrition provided by either,’ she said.
‘Together, they are ideal to soothe sore throats and coughs mainly because of Manuka honey’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
‘The caffeine content in green tea has been shown to improve metabolism, speeding up the body’s natural calorie burner.’
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is often a go-to on cold winter nights or when people are sick.
This is because chicken soup reinvigorates the body with a combination of great flavour and immunity boosting benefits.
‘Low-cal and delicious, it keeps the stomach full while not compromising your weight-loss goals,’ Zhanna said.
Chicken soup is often a go-to on cold winter nights or when people are sick
Eggs
Although a high intake of eggs can raise levels of bad cholesterol in some, according to Zhanna they are among the best foods for weight-loss.
‘High in protein and fat, these little flavour bombs can leave one feel satiated towards the end of the day,’ she said.
‘Eggs are also loaded with nutrients helping those with calorie-restricted diets keep up with the daily nutrition.’
Tuna
‘Tuna is a source of high-quality protein with basically no fat,’ she said.
‘It also comes with amino acids that the body needs for muscle tissue maintenance. It’s high in protein so great for weight-loss too.’
Although a high intake of eggs can raise levels of bad cholesterol in some, according to Zhanna they are among the best foods for weight-loss
Almonds
Almonds are beneficial to the immune system thanks to its vitamin composition and fibre content, leaving a filling sensation that can last hours.
‘These nuts are great for snacking, when eaten in moderation, and promotes weight-loss along with an immunity boost,’ she said.
Chillies
Chillies contain capsaicin, which has been shown to burn fat and lower the appetite.
‘Its chemical components help boost metabolism by increasing hormone production, making it easy to burn calories even while you sit behind your desk,’ Zhanna said.
‘They also contain beta carotene and antioxidants which naturally fight flu and cold symptoms that are lingering in your body as the weather shifts from hot to cold.