Winter months make you crave hot chocolate and eggnog. Unfortunately, those warm drinks are not the healthiest choices. Take a look at these alternatives that not only taste good, but will help you stay healthy during cold and flu season.
Hot Spiced Cider Tea – Spice up your plain apple cider with ginger, orange pekoe, and cardamom pods. Ginger helps cure nausea and muscle pain. Orange pekoe tea slows the growth of harmful oral bacteria and reduces the risk for cardiovascular disease. Mixing in a spice like cardamom pods can prevent gastrointestinal diseases. This hot spiced cider tea is packed with nutrients.
Warm Spiced Coconut-Almond Milk – Replace your eggnog with this warm, low-carb drink. Not only is almond milk low in calories, but it is high in vitamin D, which strengthens bones. This dairy-free option helps reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Adding coconut oil into the mix will prevent high cholesterol and boost the immune system.
Sage and Thyme Tea – Don’t let cold and flu season get to you. Try out this sage and thyme tea recipe made to keep you in good health through the colder months. Sage is known for its ability to increase the immune system and improve memory function. Thyme, which contains antioxidants and antimicrobials, can also benefit your health. Thyme is often paired with sage because of its well-balanced taste.
Warm Banana Smoothie – When the weather gets cold you reach for a hot tea or coffee to warm you up, but why not try a warm smoothie instead. If you like banana bread, you’ll love this warm banana smoothie. Bananas are filled with fiber, magnesium, and potassium. All these nutrients are great for lowering blood pressure, helping bone health, and controlling blood sugar. Dates in the smoothie will boost digestive health and aid iron deficiency.
Turmeric Chai Tea – Switch out your regular tea with a delicious anti-inflammatory tea. A warm drink containing turmeric has the ability to improve digestion and boost immunity. The benefits of turmeric are endless with its potential to treat cancer, reduce arthritis pain, and promote weight loss. Next time you’re looking for a tea that will instantly make you feel better, try this healthy option.
Warm up this winter season with a tea or smoothie. After adding a warm, healthy drink to a cold day, you won’t be thinking about hot chocolate or eggnog anymore.
