Here is a healthy diet for the cold months

Eat plenty of vegetables in the form of clear soups, boiled or baked. Salads though healthy might not be tempting in the cold season

A couple of fruits everyday are needed

Hot brown rice, whole wheat toast, hot phulkas, warm pasta, oats or ragi porridge will make a sumptuous carbohydrate dish

Include whole pulses like rajma, moong and channa because they are filling and nutritious

You can keep yourself warm with herbal teas. If needed, use minimal amounts of honey to sweeten the herbal teas

Include spices and nuts in the diet. Nuts are filling and nutrient-packed. Alternative therapists believe that some spices like pepper, ginger and garlic give warmth to the body and are useful in winter

Luke warm water is a nice way to make sure your water requirement is met and you don’t shiver

Stay away from fried foods and rich desserts. Even if you get tempted to snack on hot bondas, make sure you burn off the calorie loads by adequate exercise

Alcohol and caffeine have a mild dehydrating effect. Don’t overload yourselves with these beverages in order to keep warm