10 Nutrient-Packed Beverages for Chilly Days
The vibrant colors of fall leaves and the refreshing chill in the air make us all want to cozy up with a warm drink. This season, instead of reaching for sugary concoctions, why not embrace comforting and nutritious beverages? Let's explore a list of healthy, warm drinks you can sip to keep the cold at bay while nourishing your body.
Turmeric Golden Milk:
Benefits: Turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, offers many health benefits, from anti-inflammatory properties to aiding digestion. How to make: Blend warm almond or coconut milk, a pinch of black pepper, half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve warm.
Ginger Tea:
Benefits: Ginger can help reduce muscle pain, lower blood sugars, and treat indigestion. How to make: Slice fresh ginger and boil it in water for 10 minutes. Strain and serve. Add honey or lemon for additional flavor.
Cacao Hot Chocolate:
Benefits: Raw cacao is packed with antioxidants and can help improve mood. How to make: Mix raw cacao powder with warm almond or oat milk. Sweeten with a dash of maple syrup or honey. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cacao nibs for some crunch.
Chai Latte:
Benefits: The spices in chai, such as cardamom, ginger, and cloves, are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to aid digestion. How to make: Brew strong black tea with spices, including cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and fresh ginger. Add warm milk and a touch of honey or maple syrup.
Bone Broth:
Benefits: Rich in vitamins and minerals, bone broth can aid digestion, support joint health, and boost the immune system. How to make: Slow cook bones (chicken, beef, or fish) with water, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and your choice of herbs and veggies for 12-24 hours. Strain and serve.
Matcha Latte:
Benefits: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, boosts metabolism, and can enhance mood and concentration. How to make: Whisk together hot water and matcha powder until frothy. Top off with warm milk of your choice. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Herbal Teas:
Benefits: From chamomile's calming properties to peppermint's ability to soothe digestion, there's an herbal tea for every health concern. How to make: Select your preferred herbal tea bag, steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes, and enjoy. Feel free to add a touch of honey, lemon, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Drink:
Benefits: ACV can aid in weight loss, reduce cholesterol, and lower blood sugar levels. How to make: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of ACV with warm water. Add a dash of honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
Beetroot Latte:
Benefits: Beets are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance. How to make: Blend cooked beetroot with the warm milk of your choice until smooth. Serve with a touch of honey or maple syrup.
Roasted Dandelion Root Tea:
Benefits: Dandelion root is a liver detoxifier, can aid digestion, and acts as a diuretic. How to make: Steep roasted dandelion root in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, and add a splash of almond milk if desired. Not only do they provide comfort and warmth, but they also come packed with a range of health benefits. So, as the days get shorter and the nights cooler, warm up with one (or more!) of these delightful and health-boosting drinks.
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In Health,
Cindi Stickle
(Un)Processed Food Coach
Environmental Toxin Specialist