What to Eat and Drink

Include whole wheat unyeasted bread, buttermilk, cottage cheese, steamed veggies, ghee (clarified butter) soup, and spicy foods in your meals. The body constricts skin pores and superficial connective tissue in reaction to cold weather to minimize heat loss, which transfers heat away from peripheral tissues and into the body's center, including the stomach. In the winter, Agni (and hence your appetite) grows stronger. Agni, on the other hand, plummets when Kapha or Vata are triggered, making you more susceptible to colds, poor circulation, joint problems, and unpleasant emotions. Because your appetite is stronger in the winter, consume more protein, such as beans, tofu, eggs, and, if you're not a devout vegetarian, chicken, turkey, and fish. Warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper can help with digestion.

A few ounces of sweet or dry wine with your meals will help to fuel your Agni (digestive fire), stimulate your appetite, and increase circulation. Cold drinks (which irritate Kapha and Vata) should be avoided in favor of hot water, hot tea, and, on occasion, hot cocoa or chai. Drinking warm water will help you flush your system and keep you warm throughout the day. Drinking hot/warm water several times a day flushes toxins from the system and hastens recovery.

Keep in mind to acquire your Vitamin C. For three months, take 500 mg twice a day.