Healthy winter food swaps

The winter chill can cause a lot of changes in your routine. You may find yourself wanting to stay in bed longer, have hotter, longer showers and eat warm, comforting food. But this last one doesn’t have to translate to slowly but surely putting on the kilos. Rather than reaching for hot chips and sausage rolls in the cooler months, try making these healthy food swaps.

Bacon and egg roll > Porridge

Heading out for a morning coffee is much more tempting once the temperature drops. The smell of bacon cooking as you’re waiting in line can make you seriously consider the coffee and roll deal, but call on your willpower and go for a steaming bowl of porridge instead. The oats will keep you fuller for longer and slowly release energy throughout the day.

Pasta > Soup

Pasta is such an easy option in winter. You can make a big batch of it on the weekend and take it to work every day for lunch. Why not do the same with soup? It’s twice as healthy but just as easy: all you need are vegetables, spices, stock and a stick blender. Laters, excess calories!

Meat pie > Beef and vegetable curry

If you’re craving something as hearty and homely as the ‘footy favourite’ meat pie, whip up a curry instead. By adding vegetables to your beef, using brown rice instead of white and swapping a calorie-laden gravy for a lighter (but just as tasty) curry sauce, you’ll end up with a dish that’s loaded with nutrients and sure to satisfy.

Hot chips > Sweet potato wedges

Hot chips are my weakness in winter. Add some chicken salt and tomato sauce and I’m in trouble. If, like me, you’re looking to cut down on calories, sweet potato is a better option. Or at the very least, ditch the deep-fried version and cook your own hot chips in the oven.

Apple pie > Poached pears

Suddenly craving dessert every night? Winter is the devil, isn’t it?! Resist throwing apple pies to your grocery trolley, and get creative with the seasonal fruit on offer. Peel and poach some pears in hot water and drizzle them with a little honey and cinnamon for a sweet treat that won’t undo your hard work at the gym.

Toasted sandwich > Frittata

Toasties really hit the spot on a dreary day, but there is a healthier way to get your ham and cheese fix. With whisked eggs and milk, make a frittata mix with ham and cheese along with nutritious veggies like spinach, tomato and mushroom. Then, simply bake in the oven and cut into portion-controlled sizes that can be used for any meal.

Do you crave hot foods in winter? How do you maintain your health in the cooler months?