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.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
Wrapping Up...
Imagine yourself in a cozy blanket with a warm mug in hand. Savoring these nourishing drinks is the kind of self-care we all need during the cooler months. While these beverages offer a plethora of health benefits, each person's journey to wellness is unique. If you're curious about foods that best align with your health goals or are seeking more personalized nutrition and detoxification guidance, I'm here to help.
Book a free discovery session with me, and together, we can chart a path to your optimal health. Whether it's diving deeper into delicious foods or formulating a tailored plan for your overall wellness, let's embark on this journey together.
Click here to reserve your spot. I can't wait to connect and explore the many avenues of health and wellness with you!
Warm regards,
Dr. Jennifer Dillman, ND, FNTP