Winter Soups

Winter Soups
Winter is that time of the year when you want to curl up with a quilt and indulge in piping hot salty food along with endless cups of coffee or hot chocolate. The change in the outside temperature, eating habits and exercise regimen makes you succumb to the seasonal flu. You can opt for some amazing winter soups which will ensure that you are eating well even during this season.
Why should you opt for soups?
1. The body’s metabolism tends to slow down a bit because of the cold. However, the body needs calories to provide heat to the body. The best way to get those calories is from complex carbohydrates and protein. 
2. Proteins have a thermogenic effect on the body, that is, it produces heat which is good during winters.
3. Unlike summers, we do not feel the need to drink water during winters. The craving for salty foods by evening is an indication of electrolyte imbalance. Soups make up for the liquid requirement. While coffee and tea make you lose water because of their diuretic property, soups rehydrate you.  
4. Bowel movements change for many people during winters. The fibre from the vegetables will help them regulate it. 
What can you do?
1. You can make a batch of hearty soups each day so that you can have a bowl of it whenever you feel like it. Many people who lose appetite during this cold weather find it easier to drink soups than eat. 
2. A mix of vegetables, lentils, beans, meat and complex carbohydrates forms a complete meal in itself.
3. Oats, noodles, pasta, rice and millets can be thrown in to increase the density and complexity. 
4. Protein sources like kidney beans, lentils, cottage cheese/paneer, chicken, mutton, fish or tofu can be added. 
5. You don’t have to be heavy handed with cream and butter to give thickness to the soup. Seeds like sesame, pumpkin and sunflower give an excellent texture and creaminess. Boil the seeds, puree and add to the soup for thickness. 
6. Virgin olive oil can be drizzled on to the soup before serving. 
7. The chunky vegetable and meat soup can be pureed to a thick soup to suit the palate of younger children. 
8. Use ginger, garlic and pepper liberally while making winter soups as they have a warming effect on the body. 
So go ahead, curl up with a quilt and a book but reach out for that warming soup rather than sugar loaded sweets. Your body will thank you for it.