With shorter, colder days, the winter takes a toll on our energy levels. Now more than ever we’re tempted to stay hunkered down until we can emerge from hibernation in the spring. Unfortunately, our productivity, performance and happiness don't deserve to decrease just because we’re feeling less energized. By filling our plates with energizing seasonal foods that nourish our bodies, we’ll be able to feel better throughout the winter months.

    Squash. A source of nutrient dense, low-glycemic carbs, squash is a perfect starchy vegetable to choose in the winter. Whether you’re roasting acorn squash or butternut squash as a side dish, or spaghetti squash as an alternative to high-glycemic, processed spaghetti, you’re getting a fiber, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C) and minerals alongside carbohydrates – all of which will energize you.

    Dark, leafy greens. The high levels of chlorophyll in dark leafy greens help oxygenate your blood, and they provide essential vitamins and minerals, as well as live enzymes that promote digestive health. Experiment with seasonal beet greens, Swiss chard, kale, spinach and collards. If making a salad isn't appealing in the colder weather, simply lightly sauté with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil.

    Pears. If you’re craving something sweet mid-afternoon, try reaching for a piece of fruit instead. Not only are pears seasonal in the late fall and early winter, but they're a nutrient-dense source of sugar. The fiber in whole pears helps balance out the glycemic load, ensuring you're not starving or sleepy 15 minutes later.

    Through 3D-NLS you can get more health care products for our health, to help us enjoy winter.