Silverio Omari
In a chilly and misty environment, where you’re shivering despite drinking water, there are ways to keep warm beyond just layering up with jackets, socks, and blankets. Nairobians, facing this cold weather, are on the lookout for effective solutions.
Henry Ng’ethe, Chairperson of the Nutrition Association of Kenya, suggests that eating foods high in carbohydrates can help maintain warmth. A breakfast rich in complex carbohydrates, which stay in the body for 3-4 hours, can provide sustained energy and keep you warm. Unlike highly refined carbohydrates, complex carbs offer longer-lasting energy and warmth.
Ng’ethe emphasizes that complex carbohydrates, such as those found in a hearty cup of porridge, are digested slowly, providing prolonged energy and heat. Additionally, snacks like nuts and seeds are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals, which help insulate the body and support overall health.
Herbal teas can also be beneficial, as they increase internal heat and blood circulation. Ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, lemon, and mint have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can combat respiratory infections during cold seasons.
Ng’ethe also recommends drinking 8-10 cups of warm water daily to stay hydrated, as people often lose a lot of water through sweating when dressing warmly. Fruits can aid in regulating body temperature and energy levels due to their magnesium and vitamin content.
Lastly, root vegetables like beets, carrots, and turnips, which are abundant in cold weather, provide essential nutrients that boost the immune system and help protect against colds and flu.
Dj Vnyash
