Cozy Up with these Healthy Winter Beverages

As snowflakes descend daintily onto the frozen ground outside our cozy home, I’m reminded that few things are as comforting as curling up by the fire with a beverage that warms both body and soul.

However, go-to refreshments like apple cider or hot chocolate contain anywhere from 24 to 38 grams of sugar. These drinks may be tasty, but the consequences of regularly consuming them are anything but sweet. 

In fact, the warm, sugary beverages we often reach for this time of year will affect more than just the waistline. 

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, routinely drinking sugar-loaded beverages can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases. Frequent consumption of sugary drinks is even associated with an increased risk of premature death. 

This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a warm beverage that’s both delicious and healthy! Especially during this time of year when many are trying to develop better habits, you don’t have to sacrifice taste for nutritional value.

Check out these mouthwatering recipes and ditch the sugar without sacrificing the flavor.

Golden Milk

• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp honey

This traditional Indian drink is known for its many health benefits and could help jump-start your immune system and ward off sickness, which runs rampant during these cold months. 

Place all ingredients (except honey) in a medium saucepan. Whisk together, then bring to a simmer. Stir frequently for 5-10 minutes. Add honey and stir. Serve warm. Garnish with cinnamon. 

Black Tea with Sliced Ginger

Add milk/nut milk foam to increase the yum factor with this delicious tea! 

Hot Apple Cider Vinegar Tea

• 1 1/2 cups of boiling water
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (we use Fairchild’s Apple Cider Vinegar)
• 1 tsp raw honey (or to taste)
• Float cinnamon stick and apple slice

Scientific research supports the health benefits of apple cider vinegar. Not only can this ingredient help lower blood sugar levels and heart disease risk factors, but it can also aid in managing diabetes and promote weight loss.

After boiling water, add water and all ingredients into your cup, stirring well. 

Beetroot Lattes

• 2 tablespoons of beetroot powder
• 2 tablespoons of warm water
• 3 teaspoons of honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla
• 1 cup of a nut milk
• Warm ingredients

Did you overindulge in caffeine during the holiday season? This recipe is sure to satisfy your coffee cravings! Plus, beetroot powder packs powerful antioxidants to combat inflammation all over the body. 

Dissolve beetroot powder in 2 tablespoons of warm water to create a paste. Then add the paste to the saucepan, whisking in all ingredients except honey. Pour into your mug, sweetening with honey to desired taste.

Honey, Ginger, and Lemon

Simply combine these ingredients in a mug of warm water, and enjoy! 

Also, you can indulge in any herbal tea, such as sage tea, hot vanilla chai, or Earl Grey black tea.

I hope you enjoy these comforting winter beverage ideas. Tell me in the comments: What is your favorite healthy, warm drink this season?