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These 2 winter foods have more calories than your dinner! Nutritionists warn
Excessive consumption of popular winter snacks like peanut and jaggery gajak can lead to weight gain due to their high calorie content. Experts recommend enjoying these dishes in moderation. Include healthy winter foods like root vegetables, leafy greens and citrus fruits to boost immunity and maintain fitness during the season.
These 2 winter foods have more calories than your dinner! Nutritionist warns (Image credit: iStock)
When temperatures drop, our craving for warm, comforting food increases. One of the most favorite winter snacks are peanuts and gajak – a staple in almost every Indian household. According to nutritionist Lima Mahajan, although they are delicious and easy to eat, they can also be the hidden culprit behind your weight gain.
In a recent Instagram post, Mahajan revealed how these harmless winter dishes pack a heavy calorie punch. He shared, “There are two frequently eaten foods in winters that can cause massive weight gain. For example, a bowl of peanuts contains about 700-800 calories – often more than your main meal.
Mahajan also pointed out the calorie content of ‘Jaggery Gajak’, saying, “One packet of Jaggery Gajak contains more than 2,600 calories. Whenever the box is in front of us, we often eat it without thinking. Which of these is your guilty pleasure?”
problem of overindulgence
While peanuts and gajak have nutritional benefits – peanuts are high in protein and healthy fats, and jaggery is rich in minerals – eating them in excess may add more calories than your body needs. Over time, this can lead to weight gain and related health problems like fatty liver, diabetes, and PCOS.
Mahajan advised in his post, “Being aware of the calorie content of your food is the key to staying on track. Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation and remember that consuming more calories than your body can burn will eventually lead to fat gain.
healthy food to eat in winter
Winter doesn’t just mean eating comfort foods; This is also an opportunity to include nutrient-rich options that keep you warm and healthy.
– root vegetables
Foods like carrots, sweet potatoes and turnips are rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. A 2019 study published in Nutrients reported that root vegetables are excellent for boosting immunity and aiding digestion during the colder months.
– leafy greens
Spinach, mustard greens and fenugreek leaves contain high amounts of iron, calcium and vitamin C. A review in Frontiers in Plant Science (2021) emphasizes the role of leafy greens in maintaining energy and supporting bone health.
– citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons and grapes are winter staples that are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens immunity. A study in the Journal of Nutrition (2017) found that citrus fruits improved skin hydration and immune response.
– nuts and seeds
Almonds, walnuts and flax seeds provide healthy fats and omega-3s. Research from Advances in Nutrition (2020) suggests that moderate nut consumption may support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Millet
Millet and jowar are warm grains rich in fiber and nutrients. A 2022 study published in Food Research International showed that millet helps control blood sugar levels and improve gut health.
herbs and spices
Ginger, turmeric and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties.
seasonal soup
Warm soups made from vegetables and pulses provide hydration and essential nutrients.
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