Super Smoothie
Simple approaches to help improve our wellbeing naturally, over the cooler months.
Rachel Grunwell’s Greens in a Cup recipe
Instinctively we make simple changes with the approach of winter. Warmer clothes take front of place in the wardrobe, flannelette sheets reappear on the bed and the crock pot comes out of retirement. The foods we choose may also change as we innately know that while raw salads cool us, soups and stews help produce an inner warmth.
The longer periods of darkness with the end of daylight savings may mean we sleep for longer or linger more inside to keep warm and dry. When seasons change we often get more fatigued and may not eat as we should, especially when stressed. The colder seasons are notorious for increasing our susceptibility to the germs and bugs that “do-therounds”. Here are some tips to help your immune system - try to make them a part of your routine.
Let the sunshine in
One of the downsides to the shorter days is decreased exposure to sunlight. There is a clear link between the quantity of sunlight available and our biological wellbeing. The ‘winter blues’ or season affective disorder (SAD) strikes many people in the cooler months, impacting mood,
health, concentration and sleep. Vitamin D is made when we are exposed to sunlight, so for many of us getting outside and enjoying activities in the fresh air can be helpful. Some foods can also help to increase vitamin D, such as fatty fish like tuna and salmon, eggs and beef liver, as can vitamin D3 supplements or Cod Liver Oil, the most well-known traditional winter supplement.
Spice it up
Herbs and spices add new dimensions of flavour, colour and nutrients to otherwise plain meals. Winners for winter are garlic, turmeric, ginger, oregano, thyme and cinnamon. Turmeric can also help during the winter as it supports our immune response and defences.
Eat in season
Fresh produce is a great source of vitamin C which is vital for our overall health. In winter, we often need more of it to support our immune defences. Add in-season fruit and veges like pumpkin, cabbage, parsnips, leeks, feijoas and pears to your meals for a delicious boost, and if needed, supplements can help top up your supply.