Winter offers an excellent opportunity to try seasonal foods and adapt your meals to the colder weather. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 10% of Americans meet the daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. Dieticians suggest including winter produce such as citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, as well as root vegetables like parsnips and radishes. Adding greens like kale and radicchio can also make meals more interesting. If fresh produce is hard to find, frozen or canned options are still nutritious as long as you avoid added salt or fats. Dried fruits and nuts, such as apricots and walnuts, can also add flavor and nutrition to salads and baked goods.

Winter meals like stews, soups, and porridges provide warmth and nutrition. Experts point out that these dishes are not only healthy but also adaptable to many cultures. Adding beans and legumes can boost protein and fiber in these meals. Porridges are also a great base for a variety of flavors, both savory and sweet. Spices like turmeric and ginger can enhance the taste while offering health benefits, such as reducing inflammation. Infusing teas and snacks with these spices can add extra warmth and depth. Cooking and sharing seasonal meals with family and friends can also help strengthen social connections and improve well-being.