STAYING HEALTHY IN THE COLDER MONTHS

Brrrrrrr, it is getting rather chilly these days... The sun was peek-a-booing all day today, just never hung around long enough to warm the Earth, at least not here. Yep, the season of coldness has arrived, and, that means dreary, dark, and susceptible days for the most of us...

The change of the season means having to go through that awful tiredness, which just seems to stay with us for at least a month. And, more germs. Lots more germs infesting our lives, as the windows close and people begin to get colds and the flu. This is the time to stock up on plenty of teas, Vitamin C, B-Complex,find sources of Vitamin D and, eat healthy foods, such as soups, stews, or other stock based meals.

It is quite true and proven that stock, which some call tea, can defend the immune system through the cold winter months. Make sure that it contains onions, fresh garlic, celery, carrots, other vegetables, and, whatever form of protein you most prefer. While I do not eat much meat at all, I prefer some beef in my stocks, as there is an enzyme in beef which is vital to healing, and, is not found anywhere else. Chicken is more popular, but, it does not always make the best stock....

This is the time of the year when we crave more fat, as it provides energy, but, it will also fatten us up over the coming months. You do need fat as it helps to absorb the vital nutrients you take in. Knowing the right fats is to make it easier to balance the need for it. The fat from fish is ultra healthy, the fat from certain meats, such as pork, is not. Olive oil is preferred over other oils, but, Drs. say that no oil is healthy, although there are conflicting studies over this. Butter breaks up in the system better than most oils, such as vegetable oil, but, must be used sparingly... I often use like 1 or 2 Tablespoons of olive oil and the same amount of butter for making dishes of a larger portion. That way it is kind of balanced and the butter offers flavor like on other oils...

Oh, and sweets: we crave more sweets in the winter months. Perhaps because of the fat in them? Or is it psyche indulgence? Like, there is no sunshine, so I will create happiness with a hot brownie, or a triple layer chocolate cake? Ha! I don't know what it is for sure, but, I know that many, many people really dig into the sweetest temptations when they are in for the season...

I will be bringing us some savory drinks, foods, and, tasty temptations which will be healthy, yet ummmmm, so good...

Time to warm up some and relax; it was a long, long day... Take care and the best of health and of the season to all!~~