7 winter foods to improve internal body warmth
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As winter deepens, many people say their hands and feet remain cold no matter how many layers of clothing they wear. Doctors explain that this is not only due to low temperatures but also to reduced physical activity, slowed blood circulation and decreased metabolic energy during the colder months. Improving internal warmth can help relieve fatigue, cold sensitivity in the extremities and weakened immunity, which is why dietary changes can make a meaningful difference. Here are seven winter foods that may help warm the body from the inside.
Ginger, a classic ingredient that supports peripheral circulation
Ginger contains compounds that expand blood vessels and stimulate peripheral blood flow, which can help ease cold sensations in the hands and feet. It is especially recommended for people who feel chilled easily. Drinking warm ginger tea, sometimes with honey, may also help soothe the stomach and reduce nighttime cold discomfort. However, people with sensitive stomachs should avoid consuming it on an empty stomach.
Sweet pumpkin, a carbohydrate that helps stabilize body temperature changes
Sweet pumpkin is rich in slowly digested carbohydrates and dietary fiber, helping prevent a rapid drop in body temperature after meals. Steamed pumpkin and pumpkin soup are relatively easy to digest for people with colds or sensitive stomachs and may help reduce the sudden chills many people experience.
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Cinnamon, a warming spice that aids circulation in cold-sensitive individuals
Cinnamon is often used to support warmth and circulation in people who lose body heat easily. When consumed as a warm tea, it may create a gradual warming sensation in the body. Because it can be stimulating, people who have digestive sensitivity or tend to feel overheated should start with small amounts.
Beet, a plant food that may improve blood flow efficiency
Nitrates in beets are converted in the body into nitric oxide, which plays a role in relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation. This may benefit people who experience cold sensations when blood does not flow smoothly to the extremities. Warm beet soup or roasted beets are gentler on digestion and can help gradually warm peripheral areas.
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Jujube, a traditional ingredient associated with restoring energy and easing cold sensitivity
Jujube has long been used as a restorative food for fatigue and weakness and is considered warming in traditional Asian dietary practices. It may suit people whose hands and feet cool easily and can be enjoyed in tea or stew-type dishes, potentially supporting relaxation and sleep quality as well.
Red ginseng and ginseng, battling fatigue and cold sensitivity
For people who experience both winter fatigue and cold extremities, red ginseng or ginseng is sometimes used to support circulation and metabolism. When consumed as a warm tea, it may help reduce the sensation of the body cooling too quickly. Because some people may experience a heating effect, excessive intake should be avoided.
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Brown rice, a grain that helps sustain warmth for longer
Brown rice digests and gets absorbed more slowly than white rice, providing a steadier energy supply. This can help reduce sharp declines in body temperature after meals. Some people say that even mixing brown rice into white rice can help delay cold sensations in the hands and feet. Eating it with warm tea may also reduce digestive discomfort.
This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top health care and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.