10 Useful Products that need to be consumed in Winter
What progress has been achieved and flights between countries, that we can buy any exotic fruit all year round, even durian, and in winter cucumbers, radishes and tomatoes are presented in the same assortment as in summer. But science in the person of nutritionist Maria Oleinik authoritatively declares: not all fruits and vegetables are equally useful at different times. Only seasonal cultures should rightfully become table favorites.
As proof of such a categorical statement, there are at least three arguments. First, the seasonal harvest path from the garden to the counter is as short as possible, which means fresh fruits and vegetables. Secondly, they are the least processed, as they are intended for emergency sale, therefore they do not undergo the special treatment necessary for long-term storage. Third, products that ripen in late autumn and winter are important components of the diet, the use of which will help to survive the season without a cold and loss of strength.
Together with an expert, we have collected a selection of ten products that are especially good in the winter and necessary for our body in the first place.
10 winter healthy fruits and vegetables
Avocado
Avocado grows in Israel, and the season he has just the Russian winter, so in December, he enters into courage. This fruit (do not be surprised) is rich in polyunsaturated acids, which support our performance and increase the protective functions of the body. Avocados contain a huge amount of vitamins (A, C, B6, B1, B9, E) and minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, copper, iron). In addition, superfood contributes to the breakdown of harmful cholesterol.
Granate
In the northern hemisphere, this granular fruit ripens from September to January. According to the content of nutrients, it can be safely called one of the most valuable fruits. Pomegranate fruits are rich in sugars, tannins, vitamin C, they contain fiber, minerals and trace elements: calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, sodium. Pomegranate juice helps to normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract, has a disinfecting effect and is effective for the prevention of colds.
Turnip
Turnip ripens in late autumn and is also particularly good at the beginning of winter. It contains vitamins of group B, carotene, iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium and sulfur. Regular consumption of this vegetable maintains radiance and healthy skin color. A large amount of antioxidants slows the wilting of the skin, prevents the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation.
Persimmon
“Heart Apple”, as it is called, ripens before the first frosts, in November. It has a lot of fiber (much more than the rest of the fruit), which helps to eliminate toxins and proper intestinal function. It also contains vitamins C and PP, vitamins of group B, carotene, potassium and magnesium, which makes it a real source of usefulness. Persimmon beneficial and has tonic effect, increases efficiency, improves appetite, and soothes the nervous system. It actively nourishes the heart muscle and strengthens the cardiovascular system.
Tangerines
In the south, where tangerines are growing, it is the height of summer, so the fruits absorb all the most useful things, namely when the cold comes. Like many citrus fruits, mandarins contain a large amount of vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid, pectic substances, mineral salts, and essential oil. This fruit is an indispensable natural antidepressant, as the juicy taste and bright orange color positively affect the nervous system.
Broccoli
This cabbage also comes to its best form by December. In terms of protein content, it can surpass beef, rabbit, and chicken eggs, which is why broccoli praise and honor athletes so much. It contains potassium, calcium, phosphorus and other minerals that are needed to eliminate heavy metal salts, normalize heart function, and remove cholesterol from the blood channels. Omega-acids, concentrated in a large amount of vegetables, control intracranial pressure, as well as fight against high blood pressure. Copper with cobalt and iron are involved in blood formation processes and increase the production of red blood cells. Phosphorus affects brain activity, increasing perception, concentration and memory. The product contains a lot of tocopherol, which is a natural antioxidant. Broccoli keeps the tissues young and prevents skin wilting.
Feijoa
The berries appeared in late autumn, in December their season will reach a peak, which means the prices for feijoa will become more attractive. In terms of iodine content, these fruits outdid even red fish and seafood. To replenish the daily iodine intake, it is enough to eat only two pieces per day (if there is no shortage). Due to the content of feijocapantothenic acid, it is possible to restore the work of metabolic processes in the body. The enzyme actively suppresses a number of ailments and is able to cope with pancreatitis, allergies, liver diseases, tuberculosis and bronchitis. Pyridoxine helps to build enzymes that are necessary for the work of all the muscles of the human body. The chemical effectively acts on the muscles with cramps, spasms and numbness of the limbs. At the same time, pyridoxine slows down the aging of tissues at the cellular level.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin pulp contains macro- and microelements, such as: potassium, zinc, iron, fluorine, magnesium, silicon, copper, phosphorus, cobalt, calcium. It is rich in vitamins B, A, C, E, D, T, K, PP. The vegetable has many proteins, fiber, pectins, antioxidants and other substances that are necessary for the human body for the proper functioning of all organs. In addition, the pumpkin pulp helps to easily cope with irritability and fatigue. The substances contained in it improve sleep, calm the nervous system and significantly increase attention.
Jerusalem artichoke
In winter, it is not recommended to use a large number of ordinary potatoes, since the beneficial properties and elements in its composition are already at a minimum. It is better to replace it with Jerusalem artichoke, the taste of which resembles a sweet potato. Its fresh tubers are a source of ascorbic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B6, A, and PP. Jerusalem artichoke is considered to be the leader among root crops and tubers in iron content. Its regular use helps to fill the need for potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium and silicon. A kind of “star” in the composition of the Jerusalem artichoke is inulin, a plant substance that is very close to insulin in properties. The presence of a compound whose content in dry matter reaches 20% determines the active use of Jerusalem artichoke in diabetes mellitus.
Parsnip
Parsnip is very useful for the human body, helps replenish the body with useful vitamins and minerals. The root crop is harvested at the end of autumn, which means in December it is in its best form already on the store counter. The root has a sweet, spicy taste and aroma that resembles celery. The plant contains a large amount of potassium, starch, proteins, essential oils, fiber, pectin substances and oils, as well as trace elements: sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus. Parsnip also contains carotene, vitamin C and the entire group of vitamins B. Parsnip juice improves tone, brain activity, heart and blood vessels, reduces the risk of colds and has an analgesic effect.
