With this year's winter lasting longer in most parts of the country than expected, many American's have found themselves longing for foods that not only stand up to the harsh conditions but also manage to taste great as well. Winterized food options offer a variety of advantages, including age-fighting benefits and protection from certain cancers. In addition, they're easy to store, prepare, and enjoy, making them the perfect type of food to serve as a side or enjoy as a whole meal.
Some excellent examples of winterized produce include pomegranates, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, apples, grapefruit, and squash. High in nutrients called carotenoids and beta carotene, these pantry essentials keep well and offer immense antioxidant benefits. People who consume a regular diet of foods with substantial carotenoid content tend to suffer from fewer chronic illnesses. Although fresh oranges aren't necessarily widely available at your local grocery store at this time of the year, fresh-squeezed orange juice can typically be found in gallon and half-gallon containers near the milk. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant found abundantly in orange juice, can help stave off pesky winter colds and even some persistent viruses in their early stages.
Fresh fruits and vegetables like grapefruit, tomato, carrots, and watermelon are rich in lycopene and antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their ability to fight damaging free radicals and preserve skin-firming collagen. Lycopene has been shown to offer a multitude of heart-healthy benefits and can even potentially help cancer patients heal more quickly following surgery. Recent research has suggested a connection between lycopene consumption and a lower risk of skin cancer.
Isoflavones, a naturally-occurring compound found in soy products like edamame and tofu, have been linked to a decreased risk of numerous diseases. Among these are breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and prostate cancer. Other good sources of vital isoflavones include soy nuts, miso soup, soy beans, tempeh, and vegetarian "mock meat" options like soy burgers. For women, isoflavones can even help reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms.
Although it isn't a food product specifically associated with the cold winter months, coffee does belong on this list of healthful, wholesome options. Your morning cup offers more than just the extra kick of energy you need to get through the day. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, coffee is the American population's primary source of antioxidants. Whether you take it black or with cream and sugar, coffee may be helping you fight off potentially debilitating illnesses and keeping your skin stay healthy.