With the winter blues kicking in and the swimsuit season far away many of us are tempted to overindulge on comfort foods that make winter more bearable. However, comfort eating needn't mean piling on the kilos. For warming comfort foods that are kind on your waistline, check out these healthy winter foods.
Leftovers Making stuffed peppers or mushrooms is a great way to use leftovers and they are also a satisfying and filling food that will save you reaching for seconds. Using plenty of vegetables and flavours such as chilli, tomatoes and spring onions you will have a filling, comforting meal without the unwanted calories. As a healthy alternative to roast potatoes this dish will count towards your five a day.
Muffin top Rather than reaching for calorie-rich puddings and cakes, try making healthy muffins. If you use ingredients such as honey instead of sugar, and vegetable oil rather than butter, you will have a sweet treat without adding to your muffin top. Add cinnamon, seeds and dried fruit to up the nutritional value.
Warming drink It's tempting to opt for rich hot chocolate or creamy lattes to keep you warm while you're out and about.
Choosing an equally warming and uplifting hot beverage such as chai tea or green tea with cranberry will save you eating a lot of sugar and fat, will hydrate you and leave you feeling refreshed instead of sleepy - perfect to motivate you to take a walk.