Nothing hits the spot better than a warm beverage on a cold winter day. Whether you are cozying up with a book or taking a walk in those glorious chilly mornings, a hot drink in hand will simply make the moment more delicious. If you’ve not enjoyed a warm healthy drink this winter, make a new beginning this January with these mouth-watering and healthy options.
Hot Cocoa
What’s a winter without a mug of hot cocoa? You may not know this but, besides being delicious, there are several health benefits of hot cocoa. For instance, the dark chocolate gives the brain’s cognitive skills a powerful kick and raises the levels of serotonin and endorphins. Serotonin triggers a feeling of calm and stabilizes mood, while endorphins energies the brain and provides a sense of euphoria. Hot cocoa also has flavanols that increase blood flow which enhances alertness. Just exercise calorie control while making those yummy cups of hot cocoa.
Apple Cider
Another traditional favourite, the apple cider is known to have quercetin, an antioxidant that protects the brain from diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Simmer apple cider with spices, orange zest, and ginger to make a drink that has an aroma as good as it tastes. Adding some cranberries can also make for excellent alternative for this delicious warm drink.
Green Tea
Green tea featuring on this list is a no-brainer. It is the perfect winter drink because it’s light and has minimal caffeine content. Moreover, it reduces dietary fat absorption by almost 30% and the EGCG present in it also rejuvenates the skin. That’s not where the list ends, green tea is rich in antioxidants which boosts memory, mood and reduces anxiety. Grab a cup in between meals or during the day to make the most of amazing beverage.
Mulled wine
This one is for those of you who like to liven things up with a little alcohol. The benefits of red wine have always been an encouraging factor to make it a rage during gatherings. Wine is known to have antioxidants like resveratrol which enhances cardiovascular functioning. It also has sirtuins that reduce cell decay and help in their restoration leading to longevity. The way to make wine more exciting this winter is by mulling it with spices like cinnamon and cloves. Not only do these condiments make the drink more interesting, they also aid in controlling blood sugar and help fight the flu. To make things more fruiter try adding some oranges and lemons high in Vitamin C. So, go ahead and try your own version of this wine punch.
Toddy Drink
No one can resist the cravings for coffees in winters especially if we can make them a little Irish. But all that whipped cream is a serious no-no, so, try a hot toddy instead. It has only about 150 calories in comparison to its beany counterpart and you can make it spicy and citrusy like the mulled wine and apple cider to reap similar benefits. Not to forget, toddy is a great way to beat that nasty cold.
Tomato Soup
One of the healthiest appetizers you can have during chilly evenings. Not only does tomato soup keep you warm and cozy, it also keeps in check the ugly winter weight gain.
Edited by: Neelam Goswami
