Bundling up in warmer clothes isn’t the only way to stay cozy in the chillier months. Simple changes in the way we eat, incorporating foods and spices that warm us from the inside out, is a simple way to make the transition from Summer to Fall a little more smooth. And don’t worry, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite plant-based recipes either, it just might mean making a little change or two. Here’s my top 4 tips for helping you keep warm, from the inside out:
1. Spice up your life!
Use the power of spices to warm you from the inside out. Here are some of my favorite spices to add to your food:
- Cinnamon and nutmeg:
Two very versatile spices that can be used to add flavor to your morning oatmeal, or (for a savory meal), to your sweet potatoes in the evening. Cinnamon can also be beneficial for helping to regulate blood sugar. - Cayenne:
This will heat both you and your meal up. Be careful—cayenne can be very hot. Start off small and add more if desired. - Ginger:
Either fresh or powdered, this adds spice and flavor to any dish. Just like our other spices this ginger can be very versatile and used in both savory and sweet meals. Ginger has been used in herbal medicine to aid in digestion.
2. Don’t say goodbye to smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet, and they don’t have to be only a summer time treat! Add warming spices and seasonal vegetables to rev up your taste buds and prepare you for the cold weather.
How to make a warming smoothie:
- Say adios to the ice!:
Ice can leave you feeling chilly and cold, so leave it out of your fall smoothies - Add some cinnamon:
Cinnamon is a warming spice and will help warm you from the inside out - Incorporate fall foods:
Pumpkin makes a great addition to a smoothie, pair that with some cinnamon and you’re in for a real treat
3. Warm food is like a warm blanket
There is something so comforting about a plate of warm food when it’s cold outside. Here are my favorite warming meals for fall:
- Chili:
Chili actual makes you feel the opposite of what its name suggests. A bowl full of vegan chili can be filled full of those warming spices above and leave you feeling cozy and comforted from the cold - Soups:
I am a soup queen come fall. I’ll make anything and everything into soup! It’s warming, comforting, and a great way to incorporate some of those amazing fall veggies into your day. Butternut squash soup and Carrot, Avocado & Coconut soup are two of my favorites - Pie:
Can a dessert leave you feeling warm and cozy? Absolutely! There is nothing like a freshly baked apple pie out of the oven full of warming spices. Apples are in season, so seize the opportunity to bake up some tasty fall treats.
4. Don’t forget to hydrate
You might feel less thirsty when it’s cold out, so drinking less water is a common mistake people tend to make as the seasons start to change. Hydration is always super important – especially if you work out.
- Room temperature water:
It definitely doesn’t sound enticing to have an ice-cold glass of water when you’re already shivering from the temperature outdoors. Enjoy your water warm or room temperature to stay cozy. - Herbal teas:
It always feels nice to wrap your hands around a warm cup of tea, and herbal teas can be a delightful option. - Festive seasonal drinks:
Warm apple cider, chai tea, hot water with ginger and honey are all feel-good, warm you from the inside-out drinks.
Embrace the winter with open arms (and a blanket), and help yourself adapt to these winter months effortlessly.
Sarah Skalzub
Find More From Sarah
Vegan and Raw Food Recipes here >>
Nutrition and Health Tips here >>
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