Winter Food Habits

We all have a tendency to hibernate a little during the winter – we stay home more, we want to sleep more, eat more and often exercise less. We are more likely to suffer from coughs, colds and low energy.

Before we succumb to our inner grizzly bear and hibernate until spring, we can increase our energy levels and general wellbeing by paying particular attention to what goes on our plate.

By supercharging our meals, we stand the best chance of feeling great and making the most of the winter months.

Be Bright

When it's grey outside, it's doubly important to brighten up your plate. Indulge in all the wonderful winter vegetables and soups to increase your natural immunity and energy level.

Warm food will help keep your body warm. Start the day with a hearty bowl of porridge – add dried fruit, cinnamon, sliced banana, nuts and creamy yoghurt to increase its goodness.

Souped Up

Jewish mothers the world over were right – chicken soup is as good for the body as it is for the soul – fry off some onion, garlic and thyme, then cover in chicken stock, poach a chicken breast and add vegetables and pasta. Thicken with a little corn flour, cream and egg yolk. Shred the chicken and garnish with parsley.

Mighty minestrone packs a great nutritional punch too – full of tomatoes and vegetables, with a little pasta, it is bright and easy to prepare. Use canned tomatoes for any tomato-based soup. They have as much goodness as fresh tomatoes and are far cheaper and easier to get hold of at this time of year.

Rethink Salad

Salads don't have to cold, green and leafy. Reinvent salads and create some warm versions of their summer cousins. Try lightly steamed brussel sprouts with boiled baby potatoes, toasted almonds and bacon. Drizzle warmed olive oil, orange juice and crushed garlic over the top and dig in.

Take It Slowly

Roast your colours – beetroot, carrot, parsnip, pumpkin and mushrooms all work brilliantly roasted (tip – put a couple of teaspoons of golden syrup in with the oil and then roast your vegetables, they will be deliciously sweet and sticky.

Try Something New

Next time you're at the supermarket or local farmers market – be bold. Buy one thing you have never tried before and expand your horizons. Google can be your best friend in terms of how to prepare new foods – who knows what may become your new favourite?