Best Vegetables for Winter Season

Winter season is the season of cold, cough and flu. But there are certain vegetables that can provide the essential nutrients needed to strengthen the immune system and thus help in fighting different diseases and infections. Let’s have a look at these vegetables.

[alert-note]Fenugreek[/alert-note]
Commonly known as methi ka saag, Fenugreek is considered to be useful in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, sore throt, skin diseases and gastro-intestinal inflammation. It is a powerful herbal remedy to increase sexual desire and male potency. It contains protein, potassium, Vitamins A, B, B3, C, and E, and phytoestrogen. It also includes amino acids, alkaloids, and steroidal saponins in minute quantities. Although women are advised not to consume it during pregnancy as it induces premature labour, it is very useful for them in general as it helps in lactation, breast enlargement, reducing menstrual pain, treating hormonal and reproductive disorders. People suffering from diabetes and heart diseases are also advised to increase the intake of fenugreek, as it reduces blood sugar levels and helps in maintaining cholesterol.

[alert-note]Green pea[/alert-note]
Green peas are good source of Vitamin C, folates, phytosterols and anti-oxidants. Weight watchers are advised to include these green gems in their diet as they are low in calories and high in fiber content. The phytosterols can also lower cholesterol levels in the body.Antioxidants flavonoids such as carotenes, lutein, zea-xanthin and Vitamin A are present in green peas. Antioxidants flavonoids can protect the body`s cells from harmful free radicals and also reduce inflammation.Peas also contain essential B-complex vitamins such as pantothenic acid, niacin, thiamin, and pyridoxine and many minerals such as calcium, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese.

[alert-note]Mustard Greens[/alert-note]
Mustard greens popularly known as sarson ka saag in India are not only low in calories, but also a good source of vitamin B1, B2, B6, C, E and K, folic acid, calcium, carotenes, manganese, copper, magnesium, protein, potassium and iron. These nutrients are not only essential for the healthy functioning of different organs, also help in avoiding diseases like anaemia, arthritis, osteoporosis and alzheimer’s. Mustard greens are also rich in anti-oxidants, that help in fighting cancer. It contains fibre, which aid in bowel movement and hence prevents from constipation. Doctors advice women to increase the intake of mustard greens during pregnancy and menopause.

[alert-note]Carrot[/alert-note]
Only few know that a glass of carrot juice of a bowl of carrot salad contains ample amount of nutrients such as vitamin A, B, B2, B3, C, D, E, G, and K, calcium, iron and phosphorus. These nutrients help in fighting common cold and flu. Carrot is also rich in carotene, which improves eyesight and prevents night blindness. It is also helpful in reducing the chances of cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Experts consider it good for maintaining good skin, hair and nails and regulating menstrual flow. It can be used in treating obesity, gum disease, UTI, inflamed kidneys, liver and gallbladder, Alzheimer`s disease, etc.

[alert-note]Raddish[/alert-note]
Packed with nutrients like sodium, protein, vitamin C and B-9, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, raddish helps in maintaining muscle, nerve and bloodstream functions. It is low in calories and aids in heart health by reducing cholesterol. The presence of vitamin C makes it a good weapon in fight against cold and flu. Experts believe raddish to be useful in prevention of different forms of cancer.

[alert-note]Broccoli[/alert-note]
Broccoli contains a compound called glucoraphanin, that is processed into an anti-cancer compound sulforaphane by the body. Hence broccoli is considered to be very useful in reducing the chances of cancer. Studies have found that broccoli is also rich in indole-3-carbinol which helps in repairing damage cells and halts the growth of cancer cells. Among the brassica family, broccoli contains the highest level of carotenoids, that can help fight heart disease and stroke as it prevents the thickening of arteries. It can also prevent age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Beta-carotene in broccoli strengthens the immune system along with minerals, like zinc and selenium, which are useful in fighting cold and flu.