Winter Diet

Winter is here and I am sure all of us are excited about what new variety of food we can have now. The best part of it is that there are numerous healthy options on the menu to include in the winter diet, be it starters or main course or desserts or just a snack. This season brings varied flavors and options for everyone who enjoys food. People who have a sweet tooth like me can relate to the love of gajar ka halwa prepared at this time of year. Along with it there are a few more recipes that are part of my winter diet and that I really enjoy during this season are like Makki ki Roti aur Sarson ka Saag, any recipe with seasonal peas, methi ke parathe and the list is never-ending.

Introducing the Special Laddus

Apart from these, there is one more thing that I make sure is there on my kitchen shelf as soon as winter starts. This is none other than delicious Zero Sugar Dry Fruits Laddus. These laddus are a savior when you have sweet cravings and also when you are feeling low on energy. Dry fruit laddus are nutritious and also an elixir for your gut health. It is a perfect dish to start your day with or to have as a mid-meal snack.

These laddus help you meet your body’s nutritional requirements as it is a very good source of protein, calcium and minerals. The use of different kinds of nuts and seeds makes it a wholesome snack and also it is sugar less which means you do not have to feel guilty for your sweet cravings.

Recipe and Ingredients for your Winter Diet Special

These energy balls are not only simple to make but is also very travel friendly. I make sure to carry some of these whether I am on a day trip or on a short vacation. So I can be sure that I’ve something really healthy and safe for my child when he’s hungry. I have used variety of nuts and seeds in this recipe to meet our body’s different requirements.

Dry Fruits

Below are the ingredients used for making these laddus and their benefits:

• Almonds – Almonds are rich in valuable nutrients for your body, like magnesium, vitamin E, and dietary fiber. A single serving of almonds makes for a nutritious and filling snack. It also has calcium and phosphorus, which improves bone health and can protect you from fractures. It also makes your gut healthy and a healthier gut means a better immune system and a stronger body. It’s as perfect as food can be, but only if consumed in moderation.

• Walnuts – Walnuts are an excellent source of several vitamins and minerals. These include copper, folic acid, phosphorus, vitamin B6, manganese, and vitamin E. Walnuts are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. They may also reduce heart disease and cancer risk, as well as improve brain function and possibly slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Walnuts are very healthy, but some people are allergic and must avoid them.

• Pistachio – Pistachios are high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They also boast several other important nutrients, including vitamin B6 and potassium. It contain fewer calories and more protein than most other nuts. Also, its essential amino acid content is higher than any other nut. Consume it within limits and enjoy its unlimited benefits.

• Cuddapah almond (Chironji Seeds)– Chironji tastes pleasant, slightly acidic, and almost comparable to almonds. It is a valuable source of protein and fat with a relatively lower calories count. It may also help the body by strengthening and boosting immunity. It should be consumed in limited amount as excessive consumption of the same may lead to indigestion and may also cause constipation.

Dry Fruits to add some Sweetness

• Dried Figs – Dried figs are super-rich in minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, selenium and zinc. Soak dried figs in water and drink this water to lower the Vata inside the body. Dried figs contain less water, so they’re more concentrated in calories, sugar and nutrients, hence the need to keep a check on the quantity.

• Dates – Dates are nutrient-rich, have a variety of antioxidants, are naturally sweet and provide no added sugar, supports digestive health, protect heart and health and blood sugar regulation. They are also great in regulating cholesterol levels in the body, offer brain protection and help ease natural labor. But as it has high sugar content, it is advisable to consume it in small quantity.

Seeds for Winter Diet

• Flax Seeds – Flax seeds are a good source of several vitamins and minerals needed for optimal health. These include thiamine (vitamin B1), copper, molybdenum, magnesium, and phosphorus. Flax seeds may cause mild digestive issues. They contain plant compounds that may adversely affect some people and are not considered safe for high-dose consumption in early pregnancy. In rare instances, it may also produce an allergic reaction and may interact with certain medications.

• Pumpkin Seeds – Pumpkin seeds are highly nutritious and packed with powerful antioxidants. It helps to solve dietary deficiencies and may protect against various health problems. They have been shown to improve heart health, blood sugar levels, fertility and sleep quality. They may even protect against certain types of cancer. It also helps in improving energy, mood and immune function.

• Melon Seeds – Watermelon seeds are low in calories and are nutrient dense. When roasted, they’re crispy and can easily take the place of other unhealthy snack options. Although the amounts of some minerals and vitamins within them may seem low, they are still far preferable to potato chips and other unhealthy snacks.

• Sesame Seeds – Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, B vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial plant compounds. Regularly eating substantial portions of these seeds, may aid blood sugar control, combat arthritis pain, and lower cholesterol. It can be roasted, soaked or sprouted to optimize the nutrient intake. But again it is good to consume only if done in limited quantity. Excessive consumption might lead to various problems like bloating, blood pressure drop, drop in blood glucose levels etc. Also, in case of pregnancy it is advisable to consult a doctor.

For flavour and medicinal benefits

• Cardamom – Cardamom is believed to have various medicinal properties. It might help in lowering the blood pressure, improve breathing and also help in reducing weight. Some studies also show that it might help in fighting tumors, improving anxiety, fighting bacteria and also protect the liver. Therefore, adding cardamom to your cooking might be a safe and effective way to improve your health.

Taking the pros and cons of each ingredient into consideration, I have taken quantity of each accordingly to prepare the Dry Fruits Laddu recipe. This recipe might help us in enhancing our overall health and also improve our immunity. You can watch the full recipe by clicking on the link below:

I hope this blog helped you understand the benefits of using different kinds of nuts and seeds. Through my recipe I have tried to use these ingredients in a way that we can gain maximum health benefit out of it. Please make sure and be aware if any of the listed ingredients does not suit your body or if you have any allergies from any of the ingredients before trying the recipe. You can easily avoid those ingredients which may not be suitable for you.

You should also read my blog on Amla or Gooseberry as it is an important immunity booster providing food for the winters.

Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu..