DHAKA: With winter slowly setting in, the body undergoes changes to keep up with the weather. For that, it requires a lot of vitamins and energy. In fact, a change in diet according to each season is a must, as it will help in supplying the body with the right fuel. 

Here are a few foods that you need including in your diet this winter, reports The Times of India.

Honey: Honey is a good alternative to sugar and is used as a sweetener. But during winter you can use it all the more, as it keeps the body warm and helps fight infections and viruses that might cause cough and cold. Just have a spoon of honey as is everyday or mix it in a glass of warm water or milk.

Green leaves: Green leaves like spinach are an ideal inclusion in your winter diet. Spinach is an anti-oxidant and is high in vitamin A and C. It is good for the hair and skin and provides iron, protein, and minerals, apart from vitamins. It helps prevent asthma too, among other things.

Root vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, beetroots, turnips and potatoes are not only nutritious, but are also abundantly available during winter in their freshest forms. Vegetables like carrots are high in vitamin A, which is good for the skin and helps fight cold and other common infections.

Citrus fruits: A lot of citrus fruits, especially oranges, are in season during winter and should be included in your diet. Citrus fruits, like oranges, tangerines and grapes, are rich in vitamin C and are good for the skin and metabolism. They also help fight cold and regular consumption keeps viruses at bay. The fibres in them also help control cholesterol.

Garlic: While garlic makes our food tasty, there are a lot of health benefits to it too, especially during winter. It helps keep the body warm and has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight different winter diseases.

BDST: 2159 HRS, DEC 11, 2014