Damini Sharma
North News
Chandigarh, November 28
As winter arrives with its festive cheer, it also brings a host of seasonal health challenges. The cold weather often leads to common ailments like coughs, colds, and dry skin. Nutrition becomes key in combating these issues, and incorporating dry fruits into your diet can offer significant benefits.
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, dry fruits like dates, almonds, walnuts, cashews, and raisins are known for boosting immunity, aiding digestion, and improving skin health during the colder months, experts suggest. According to The Times of India, these nutrient-packed foods are essential in supporting overall well-being in winter.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlighted the significant health benefits of regular nut consumption. The research found that people who ate nuts daily had a 20% lower risk of death over a 30-year period compared to those who didn’t include nuts in their diet. Nuts were also linked to a reduction in deaths from heart disease and cancer, with lead researcher Dr. Charles Fuchs noting a 29% decrease in heart disease-related deaths, the news outlet BBC said.
For those battling anemia, dry fruits can also be a helpful addition to the diet. According to metropolisindia.com, dry fruits are rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin C, all of which help build hemoglobin and improve iron absorption. By including a variety of dry fruits in your winter diet, you can strengthen your immune system, protect your skin, and improve overall health, making it easier to enjoy the season’s festivities without the typical health setbacks.
The dry fruits, in particular, offer a quick energy boost and are packed with natural sugars, fiber, potassium, and magnesium. They help improve digestion, prevent allergies, and are effective in treating dry skin. Rich in polyphenols, dates also assist in managing blood sugar levels, contributing to overall health.
Almonds are another winter favorite, offering a wealth of nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamin E. They help maintain healthy skin and bones, while the healthy fats in almonds nourish hair and prevent dryness during the winter months.
Cashews, rich in magnesium and copper, are known for enhancing immunity and supporting brain function. These versatile nuts can be enjoyed raw or roasted and are ideal for inclusion in various winter dishes. Pistachios, lower in calories than cashews, provide warmth and support heart health while also aiding in the management of diabetes.
Figs (anjeer) are particularly beneficial for treating constipation and improving heart health. Packed with potassium and iron, figs also help regulate blood sugar levels and are best enjoyed with milk during winter.
Raisins (kishmish) are rich in vitamin C, which aids in boosting immunity and fighting off seasonal illnesses. They also support digestion, improve bone health, and promote a healthy scalp. Walnuts, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, contribute to heart health, boost blood circulation, and strengthen hair.
