The vegetable that will keep you healthy this winter
The winter is never a good time for a health and fitness plan, despite the very best intentions. In the face of abysmal weather and an abundance of hot treats, many give up on their wellness goals all-together.
However, all is not lost, and there are still ways that you can stay healthy during the winter, including eating more mushrooms. Yes, mushrooms, the tasty veg that doesn't really feel like a veg at all.
Speaking to Prima.co.uk, London-based personal trainer and founder of Right Path Fitness Keith McNiven divulged his five tips to staying on top of your game this winter, and love 'em or hate 'em, one way was eating more mushrooms.
"If you can stomach mushrooms, you should take the time to eat them," revealed Keith. "Mushrooms are filled with a wide selection of nutrients and vitamins which make them a good choice for use in winter cooking."
Long overlooked in favour of leafy greens and warming winter squashes, mushrooms are extremely versatile in cooking, and are also fat-free, low in sodium, low-calorie and cholesterol-free.
What they aren't free of are antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and mushrooms are known to protect you against damage from ageing and boost your immune system – both highly desirable in the dry, bitterly cold, flu-filled conditions of winter.
They are also the best source of selenium in the produce aisle, an antioxidant which is linked to cognitive function, reducing thyroid problems and boosting fertility.
Filled with B vitamins, copper and potassium, mushrooms are perfect for the winter weather, working in warming stews, casseroles, pasta dishes and as a great, flavourful substitute for meat.
Varieties such as oyster and shiitake mushrooms are also packed with beta gluten, a form of soluble dietary fibre linked to improving cholesterol and boosting heart health.
Other ways to stay healthy this Christmas and fight off winter ailments include loading up on greens, which boost your immune system and make it less likely to catch bugs. Sadly, exercise is also key to maintaining our health this season, and working out at home, even for 20 minutes a day, is better than nothing at all.
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