Best Foods to Support Winter Wellness

Need an immunity boost and/or more energy? Here are my go-to foods for feeling good all winter long.

Hi readers! We’re entering the home stretch of holiday madness - how’s everyone holding up? As busy and chaotic as the next few days are, I’m trying to savor them by slowing down as much as I realistically can, resisting the temptation to do more, more, more, and, perhaps most importantly, taking care of myself by fueling my body with the right foods.

With winter solstice approaching this weekend, I’m reminded that when I look to the seasons to inspire my meals and snacks, I just feel better. Eating in harmony with nature means fresh food that is more nutrient-rich, flavorful and better for the environment. It’s a simple but impactful form of self-care; when you eat well, you sleep better and have more energy for the things that really matter. Filling up on ultra processed and refined foods makes us feel sluggish and will stall health goals.

While winter isn’t exactly synonymous with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, there are still several “in season” foods that I focus on this time of year, not only because they’re at peak freshness and taste, but also because of the potent health benefits they provide during the colder weather months. The good news: they’re all readily available at the majority of supermarkets across the country. You don’t need to travel to a specialty food store or farmer’s market to reap the benefits of these natural goodies! Whether immunity, energy or disease prevention is your goal, be sure to include these foods in your diet from now until springtime:

Citrus Even though citrus isn’t a “local” food where I live (New Jersey), it’s technically in season during the winter. Loading up on lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit will ensure that you get adequate doses of Vitamin C, a crucial nutrient for a strong immune system to fight off all of the viruses and illnesses that run rampant this time of year. Citrus also helps our bodies with iron absorption, which is especially important if you struggle with low iron levels and/or anemia, which can drastically impact energy levels. Citrus fruits can also aid with digestion, support heart health and are packed with fiber, potassium, antioxidant rich flavonoids and folate. I use citrus to add a bright pop of flavor to soups and stews and in homemade vinaigrettes and marinades. It’s also lovely zested into warm grains and baked goods, or squeezed into water, club soda or hot tea. Grapefruit and oranges are fantastic segmented into winter salads, oatmeal/porridge bowls, or eaten on their own.