The cold winter days scratch at the well-being. This is proven by numerous studies. Thus, for about five percent of German citizens, the gloomy season really affects their mood. As a further consequence of the lack of sunlight, 30 percent of men and 40 percent of women over the age of 50 have a latent vitamin D deficiency at the end of winter. Also the desire for fat-rich and substantial meals typical in the winter does not remain without consequences. Thus the Cholesterinspiegel lies in the winter up to five per cent more highly than in the summer, as from a Leipziger investigation results. Lack of exercise and rustic food also cause problems for the digestive organs. Don’t let it get to that point – with a few simple tips, you can succeed in getting or staying in top shape despite the winter slump.
Tips and tricks against typical winter complaints
- Light is balm for the soul. Therefore, nothing like outside, because even on gloomy days it is considerably brighter outside than indoors. The UV rays of light also boost the body’s own vitamin D synthesis – good for strong bones and the immune system.
- From exercise in fresh air but also benefit the muscles, cardiovascular system, immune system and digestive organs.
- Regular visits to the sauna or alternating showers with cold and warm water also stimulate the circulation and harden.
- Do`s on the plate colorful: red-orange, yellow and green vegetables and fruits guarantee vital vitamins, minerals and trace elements. And not only that, just plant foods contain lots of secondary plant ingredients, which have been shown to have positive effects on the immune system and even act anticarcinogenic.
- Cure days with fitness drinks made from dairy products, freshly squeezed juices and some lactose bring additional relief to the winter-plagued intestines. With an already existing intestinal sluggishness, a “creeping” dosage with lactose has proven itself. Start with one tablespoon a day and increase to up to four tablespoons a day until the desired success is achieved. Tip: Lactose also promotes the recovery of an attacked intestinal flora – important for example after taking antibiotics.
- Also lactic acid bacteria in fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut and sour vegetables stimulate the immune system according to recent research. Sauerkraut also contains a lot of fiber – which keeps digestion going even in winter.
By the way, sauerkraut does not always need a rib as a side dish. As an Asian-style salad, it has a completely different flavor and at the same time stimulates digestion.
Coleslaw Asian style
For 4 servings: 300g sauerkraut, 2 carrots, 3 to 4 brown mushrooms, ½ red bell pepper, 4 slices raw sliced pork loin, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar, 1 heaping teaspoon lactose, iodized salt, black pepper, 2 tablespoons cold-pressed sunflower oil, 1 tablespoon unhulled sesame seeds. Shred the sauerkraut with a fork. Clean carrots and mushrooms, quarter and slice. Chop peppers and cured pork into small cubes. Mix everything and dress with soy sauce, sherry vinegar, lactose, iodized salt, freshly ground pepper and sunflower oil. Toast sesame seeds in pan (put lid on) and mix into salad. Let salad sit for at least half an hour and enjoy with farmhouse bread. 4 servings each with about 173 kilocalories or 724 kilojoules.
