The season of cold is one which is accustomed to getting the flu and feeling the chill go through you despite having yourself wrapped in major layers. But then there are some perks to it too. Some of which are chilling with an oozing hot chocolate, enjoying the warmth of bonfires and cozying up to some delicious soups. However you can also keep yourself warm by indulging in some major intake of dry fruits.
Nuts like almonds and walnuts are a powerhouse of nutrients that provide a number of health benefits. In this fast-paced world, you are always looking for some shortcuts even when it comes to food. So, dry fruits and nuts can be a healthy and delicious snack for winters.
Social Diary is going to be listing and sharing some major ways as how this amazing superfood, which is also high in proteins, vitamins, dietary fibers, and minerals, comes with lots of benefits:
Dry fruits are actually loaded with essential oils, proteins, potassium, calcium that helps to increase your immunity. Also, the presence of antioxidants in it can help you to fight against various infections and illnesses. Eating more dried fruit than fresh fruits can give more nutrients to the body. The drying process condenses nutrients in the fruit. It can provide more potassium, folate, and magnesium to name a few.
Let’s now look into some of the leading dry fruits which you should be making the most of in this cold, brutal weather while it lasts:
*Almonds are known as the ‘king of dry fruits’ as they are full of essential fatty acids, fiber, and protein. They are a great natural source of zinc, vitamin E and selenium. Almonds are also known to support blood circulation, improve hemoglobin levels and decrease cholesterol levels and thereby, help in the prevention of breast and lung cancer. Almonds are very satisfying and that is why they are considered the perfect snack item for your healthy diet plan. Also did you know- almonds, when used in face packs, give your skin a shiny and radiant look, even on very dry winter days.
*Walnuts are undoubtedly one of the healthiest nuts, which is a must during the winter season. It contains omega-3 fatty acid, which is very good for your hair, especially when the climate is extremely dry. Walnuts help in lowering cholesterol level, promote sleep and are good for skin as well as hair. If you eat walnuts in winters, they will keep your body warm. There are also different kinds of walnut shakes you can try!
*Figs are better known as Anjeer around here. They are full of minerals, vitamins and fiber. They are also a great source of vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, iron, manganese, sodium, calcium, phosphorus and chlorine. Figs are also rich in potassium that helps in controlling blood sugar and these are excellent for people with diabetes problems as they help in reducing the amount of insulin required by the diabetic patients. Did you know that these are also used in treatment of many diseases like asthma, constipation, indigestion, cough and bronchitis. Consuming figs in winters proves to be very beneficial.
*Cashew nuts are another great dry fruit for the winters. They help in controlling cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, prevent migraines and if consumed in moderation helps in losing weight. Cracked heels are a common problem faced by many people during winters and here cashew nut oil helps in nourishing their heels. Cashew nuts are rich in Vitamin E and have anti-ageing properties that will keep you glowing in the dry winter season. It is definitely one of the most popular kinds of dry fruits you can indulge in.
*Last but not the least is Pistachios. Pistachios are very tasty; these green-colored nuts are rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and phosphorus. They also contain a good amount of Vitamin E and protect your skin from UltraViolet rays that lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Pistachios are also laden with antioxidants, which prevent aging by neutralizing free radicals. They are the most unique nut as they contain carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin.
To conclude, dry fruits are helpful in dealing with much-needed problems like cold and flu. The good thing is we already make plenty of use of them in our cuisine, and while it is suggested to keep their intake minimum during the hot seasons, it is now when you can enjoy them and gain so many health benefits too!
