February 1, 2022 submitted by Carol Vincent, MD, an internal medicine primary care provider at Brigham and Women’s Harbor Medical Associates at the Hingham Shipyard
It’s is that time of year again and it is almost winter here in New England. The daylight hours are shorter and it gets darker earlier along with outdoor temperatures becoming colder. Many hunker down for the winter which may include indulging in comfort foods that aren’t packed with nutritional value.
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean that good nutrition has to be in hibernation during the winter months. Good nutrition is important all year round to boost our immune system and especially in the winter months when we tend to spend more time indoors and are less active.
There are a few simple ways to stay on track or get on board with your healthy eating habits in the winter
Plan your meals and be mindful of what you put on your plate. USDA guidelines recommend that ½ of your plate be filled with fruit or vegetable, ¼ lean protein and ¼ high fiber grains.
Local expert Carole Vincent, MD and internal medicine primary care provider at Brigham and Women’s Hingham in the Hingham Shipyard shares, “Good nutrition is an important part of managing chronic disease and weight management which is sometimes challenging in the winter months and holiday season. Be mindful of what you put on our plate, try and get outside during the day and remember to get your flu shot and Covid vaccine.”
Your primary care provider can partner with you to create a nutrition plan that works for you. Always reach out to your primary care provider with any concerns you may have.
You can learn more about healthy eating to boost your energy during the winter months from the experts at Brigham and Women’s Hospital on the Brigham Health Hub.