Winter wellness alert: what you should actually skip to stay fit and healthy this season. This isn’t about a drastic diet but about making smarter choices that curb calories without sacrificing nourishment. Here’s a fresh take on five common winter foods that many people reach for, and simple swaps to keep your cravings satisfied while supporting your goals.
As the air turns chilly, our cravings tend to drift toward comforting, heavier meals. It’s natural, but some popular winter staples can do more harm than good by nudging up calories, slowing digestion, or draining energy. To help you navigate your seasonal menu wisely, Pune-based clinical nutritionist Amita Gadre highlights five items to avoid this winter, along with practical ways to enjoy the season without piling on unnecessary calories.
1) Amla candy
Amla itself is nutritious, but amla candy is largely sugar. Instead of the sugary bite, grate fresh amla and fold it into chutneys, dal, sabzis, and salads to capture the vitamin C and tangy notes without the extra sweetness.
2) Chyawanprash
Chyawanprash tends to be sugary and may offer fewer benefits than a vegetable-forward option. A soups-based approach can deliver more antioxidants and warmth with less sugar. If you’re seeking immune-supporting foods, a hearty vegetable soup often wins on nutrient density without overloading on sugar.
3) Dry fruit laddus
While packed with nutrients, these treats are calorie-dense. A single laddu can easily reach around 200 calories. If fat loss is a goal, a modest handful of nuts provides healthy fats and protein with better portion control.
4) Ready-made packaged soups
Many convenient soups pack high sodium and relatively few other nutrients. Homemade soups allow you to control salt, fats, and ingredients, delivering fullness and warmth with more nutrition per cup.
5) Excessive ghee
Cold weather often makes us move less and prefer cozy comfort, which can lead to extra calories from fats like ghee. Moderation is key; you don’t have to cut it out entirely, but keeping portions reasonable during winter helps maintain balance.
Important note: this information is for general educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have health concerns, consult your physician.
This summary reflects opinions circulated on social media and is not independently verified by Hindustan Times. If you’re following a specific diet or have medical conditions, discuss these recommendations with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes.
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