This is the real secret to staying fit in winter, just include these 5 things in your diet.

There are many benefits of eating ginger in the harsh winter. It keeps our body warm from inside, thereby protecting us from cold. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties present in ginger relieve cold, cough and sore throat. It increases immunity, improves digestion, reduces inflammation. Also improves blood circulation. Consuming ginger tea, decoction or chutney daily reduces winter diseases and keeps the body energetic.

In winter, jaggery keeps the body warm from inside, which protects from cold. It contains rich amount of iron, which removes blood deficiency and prevents anemia. The antioxidant present in jaggery increases immunity. At the same time, it protects from cold, cough and flu. It strengthens the digestive system. It also removes calcium deficiency in the body. Calcium strengthens bones. Eating jaggery regularly maintains energy in winter and reduces fatigue.

Dry fruits are the most nutritious gift of winter. It includes many dry fruits including cashews, almonds, walnuts, raisins and figs. All these provide warmth to the body from inside. They are rich in healthy fat, protein, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium and iron, which protect from fatigue, weakness and cold caused by cold. Eating a handful of dry fruits daily strengthens immunity, keeps the heart healthy, makes the skin glowing and maintains energy. Eating them soaked or roasted in winter also improves digestion.

Consumption of ghee is considered very beneficial in winter. It provides warmth and nourishment to the body and provides relief from stiffness and pain in joints. Eat some ghee by mixing it in food or applying it on roti. Ghee also strengthens digestion. Eating ghee mixed with jaggery provides additional benefits. Sesame and flax seeds are also useful in winter. They are rich in Omega-3 and nutrients, which keep the body warm. Sesame laddu, chikki or linseed should be eaten by mixing it in salad.

Consumption of coarse grains like millet and ragi is very beneficial in winter. These grains provide warmth and energy to the body for a long time, thereby reducing chills in cold. Eating millet roti, ragi roti or khichdi fills the stomach and one does not feel hungry for long. They are rich in iron, calcium, fiber and protein, which strengthen the bones and keep the digestive system smooth. Eating these regularly in winter also increases immunity.