The winter season demands foods that provide extra energy and warmth to the body. During this time, including some traditional yet powerful ingredients in the diet not only helps the body cope with the cold but also strengthens immunity.
Peanuts, jaggery, and sesame seeds have been part of traditional diets for centuries, and according to nutrition experts, all three are especially beneficial in cold weather. Let’s explore why these foods are important and how they can be included in daily meals.
Why does the body need extra energy in winter?
In cold weather, the body uses more energy to maintain its internal temperature. Additionally, it becomes essential to strengthen the immune system to protect against colds, flu, and other seasonal illnesses. Foods rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals are considered ideal for winter.
Peanuts: A powerhouse of protein and healthy fats
Peanuts are easily available and affordable during winter, yet they offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in protein, fiber, vitamin E, and healthy fats, which provide long-lasting energy.
Eating peanuts helps improve heart health, keeps hunger at bay for longer, and reduces physical weakness. In winter, roasted peanuts make an excellent snack and can also be added to chutneys or salads.
Jaggery: Natural sweetness and a rich source of iron
Compared to refined sugar, jaggery is considered more natural and nutritious. It contains iron, potassium, and other minerals that help prevent anemia and boost energy levels.
Consuming jaggery in winter provides warmth to the body and improves digestion. In traditional remedies, jaggery is also believed to be helpful during colds and flu. When combined with peanuts or sesame seeds, it can be used to make delicious and energy-boosting sweets.
Sesame seeds: Beneficial for bones and skin
Tiny sesame seeds are packed with nutrients. They contain calcium, magnesium, zinc, and healthy oils that help strengthen bones, reduce skin dryness, and generate warmth in the body.
Eating sesame laddoos or brittle is common in winter as they help keep the body warm from within. Sesame oil is also used for massages, which can improve blood circulation.
Benefits of consuming all three together
When peanuts, jaggery, and sesame seeds are consumed together, their benefits multiply. This combination provides instant energy, strengthens immunity, and keeps the body active during cold weather. This is why traditional foods like gajak, chikki, and laddoos made from these ingredients are especially popular in winter.
How to include them in daily meals?
Adding these foods to your daily diet is simple. A small portion of peanuts and jaggery can be eaten at breakfast, while sesame seeds can be sprinkled over porridge, salads, or flatbreads. Homemade peanut and sesame chikki can serve as a healthy sweet for both children and adults.
Who should take precautions?
Although these foods are healthy, people with diabetes should limit jaggery intake, and those with peanut allergies should avoid peanuts. Similarly, consuming excessive amounts of sesame seeds may cause digestive issues for some people, so moderation is important.
Peanuts, jaggery, and sesame seeds are excellent winter foods that provide energy, warmth, and essential nutrients. Consumed in balanced amounts, they not only help maintain health during the cold season but also improve overall fitness and immunity.
