As the cooler months are upon us, so too is the time to enjoy the nourishing produce that comes with the season. Approach your diet with wholefoods balance and nutrient-dense foods in mind, knowing the ingredients that grow and flourish when the temperature drops offer our bodies supportive nutrients to protect from lurking bacteria, virus and sickness.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables such as apples, grapefruit, mandarins, lemons, oranges, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, fennel, mushrooms, silverbeet, kale and spinach – all in abundance at present – are incredible sources of vitamin A, C, D and E, beta-carotene and magnesium which fight the effects of free radical damage to our cells and improve the immune response when we need it most. Compliment these with anti-inflammatory nutrients from ginger, turmeric, raw honey, chilli, garlic and fresh herbs, plus a good side of nourishing fats from raw nuts and seeds, avocado and olive oil and you’re on track to eating your way to winter good health.

And if inspiration is what you need, get a taste of these ...

Breakfast
Green omelette with spinach, fresh herbs and sautéed brussels sprouts

Snack
Turmeric tea with a touch of raw honey (recipe below)

Lunch
Poached chicken with steamed kale, fennel, broccoli, crushed almonds and avocado

Snack
Fresh sliced apple with a spoon of nut butter

Dinner
Grilled trout with ginger, garlic and herbs, spiced roast cauliflower, carrots and greens

Drink: Mint, orange and ginger tea

Turmeric Tea
GF: SF, Serves 2

2 cups milk (almond, coconut or full cream dairy)
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon raw honey
1 teaspoon slippery elm powder

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over a medium heat.

Whisk intermittently for 3 minutes until the milk is warmed.

Divide between two glasses and top with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon to serve.