Here we are in the final days of summer already, autumn is knocking at the door and it won’t be long before the chill of winter makes itself known. 2020 has been a year where we’ve all been concerned about our health more than usual. I’ll spare you more talk about Covid as we’re all aware of the risks and are suitably terrified of catching it with the R number now rising again and local government lockdowns being inforced. Suffice to say as the cold months draw in our immune systems could do with a little boost.
It’s undeniably tougher to eat healthy in the winter. Cold, dark days, early nights and spells of cold and flu often have us reaching for comfort food more often than not, it’s all too easy to sideline the importance of boosting our immune systems with healthy and nutritious fare.
Thankfully, there will be several winter fruit varieties that still stay deliciously in season from December through to February, ensuring that you can get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals with the minimum effort. The list of fruit we’re covering below is information I’ve taken from Fruitful Office – a UK based fruit and vegetable delivery company, so what you’re reading here is the expert opinion!
Apples
Apple trees are one of the most widely cultivated trees. Plenty of varieties are available and some hardy British apple species continue to thrive, even in the winter. Good quality apples are available in the Royal Gala variety and the tasty Pink Lady – a sweet pink apple.
Oranges
Certain varieties of oranges, such as clementine oranges (a variety of mandarin) are very popular in winter thanks to their abundant levels of vitamin C. Most of these tasty oranges come from Morocco, Turkey and Spain, and they are particularly sweet during the winter season.
Passion Fruit
Passion fruit is another popular choice in winter as it is absolutely loaded with vitamins A and C, which is important for your vision and overall immune system, while the seeds of the fruit are extremely high in fibre. Make sure you pick a large fruit, as it will have more of the vitamin laden juice.
Kiwis
Originally from New Zealand, Italy is surprisingly now the largest producer of this tangy fruit. It’s very popular in the winter thanks to its high levels of fibre, potassium (they contain as much as bananas!) and over one and a half times your daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
Pears
Sweet, juicy pears are a year round favourite, but they thrive in the winter and are another British classic that can be sourced locally. Filled with vitamins and minerals that are excellent for the skin, pears are also high in fibre. As well as this, pears are high in vitamin K, which helps blood to clot.
Pomegranates
Pomegranate is a juicy and delicious citrus fruit and offers an alternative to oranges. Although there are many pomegranate foods and drinks available, the fresh fruit itself is the best way to get the most out of its many vitamins and minerals. Pomegranates are particularly noted for their beneficial effect on strokes.
Overall, a healthy diet and lifestyle is fundamental to keeping yourself healthy during the cold winter months. Ensure you are getting your recommended intake of vitamins and minerals by mixing up the fruit and vegetables you’re consuming each day; don’t just stick to the same diet.
So there you have it – the big 6. Some classics and some less travelled fruits perhaps. Give them a go, stay healthy and most importantly: Stay Safe!