Stay Warm and Healthy this Winter

Tori Keegan- Staff Writer 

Now that we are in the spring semester, it’s time to stay warm from the harsh Oneonta winter. Often during this time of year low temperatures hinder our ability to be active and we tend to eat foods that are higher in calories and fat content to keep our bodies warm. However, we can still be warm throughout the winter without these foods. Here are some alternatives that will keep you both warm and healthy, so when spring time roles around you don’t have to shed those winter pounds.
There is no better way to stay warm than with a nice cup of hot chocolate, snuggled up with a blanket and some Netflix. Feel free to add some dark chocolate on top of that to help relieve some of your stress as well as add some antioxidants.
Tea is another great option. Instead of going with black tea, reach for a green tea. Unlike black tea, green has a higher catechin, a type of disease-fighting flavonoid and antioxidant, content and it has been shown to help high blood pressure. Feel free to add some honey as a natural sweetener to complement your drink.
Oatmeal is a great source of whole grains and fiber. It will fill you up, and with some fruit on top you can add antioxidants to this delicious snack or breakfast. If you are looking to add a dose of healthy fat, try adding almond butter or chia seeds.
Chili can be a staple winter comfort food. It has been shown to help your metabolism, and adding beans provides protein to help build muscle. Including tomatoes and onions provides antioxidants.
On to dessert– who doesn’t love apple pie? Why not make an easier version by baking the apples to bring out their natural sugars, and then adding them to some Greek yogurt and walnuts for a nice snack that is sure to hit the spot?
Sweet potatoes have a great source of vitamin A, as well as vitamin C, calcium and potassium. Put them alongside the rest of your meal or make it the star by using a hint of lime, brown sugar and maple sugar. Another option is adding a bit of butter on top with rosemary.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a great option for lunch– but why not add a little twist? Rather than putting your peanut butter and jelly on bread, try using graham crackers. This will provide the sugar, carbohydrates and protein to keep you going in the cold weather.
For a classic, quick snack, popcorn is always a great option. Air popcorn is the healthiest option and can be seasoned in many ways, such as with salt.