VfL chef Ollie shares tips for keeping well and feeling energised in the colder weather.
It’s easy to forget about hydration when it’s cold outside – we’re often drawn to hot meals and cosy jumpers rather than glasses of water. But staying hydrated is just as important in winter than in summer, especially for older adults.
Staying hydrated helps maintain energy, concentration, and healthy digestion. It also supports supple skin and joints, and keeps you active. And hydration doesn’t have to mean endless glasses of cold water – there are plenty of vegan-friendly ways to keep warm and well-hydrated.
Here are a few comforting ideas to help you sip your way through the season.
Plain water is great, but in the colder months, a steaming mug of something soothing can be much more appealing. For instance, you could try herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos; they’re naturally caffeine-free and gentle on the stomach. Fruit infusions made with lemon, orange slices, or perhaps frozen berries steeped in hot water are another great option as are warmed plant milks like oat, almond, or soya milk. You could even add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a fragrant winter twist. And who doesn’t love a mug of hot chocolate on a chilly afternoon – try making them with fortified plant milk and add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla for extra comfort. Fortified plant milks are an excellent source of calcium, vitamin B12, and often iodine, too.
Soups and broths don’t just fill you up; they hydrate you too. A hearty vegetable or lentil soup is both warming and nourishing. One of my favourites is Hearty Lentil Soup – find the recipe on our website.
Try making a big batch of soup and storing it in portions or keeping a flask of hot soup handy for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Even clear vegetable broths count towards your fluid intake.
It’s easy to think of hydrating foods as summer staples, but winter produce can help too. Fruits such as oranges, pears and apples, and vegetables such as courgettes and squash, all contain water.
Snack on orange segments, add grated apple or slices to porridge, snack on, or stir roasted veg into soups and stews for both hydration and nutrition.
Sometimes the biggest challenge is remembering to drink. Keep a jug of water or herbal tea near your favourite chair, sip something warm with every meal, or set gentle reminders throughout the day.
If you notice darker urine, feel unusually tired, or get mild headaches, these can be early signs that your body needs more fluids.
Hydration isn’t just for summer. With a little creativity, your winter drinks can be just as comforting as they are good for you. Whether it’s a warming herbal brew, a hearty soup, or that perfect mug of vegan hot chocolate, every sip supports your wellbeing through the colder months.
For more nourishing and hydrating recipes check out the recipe section on our website.
You might also like these vegan drink topper ideas from NHS Somerset/Patient Webinars.
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Nutritional Advice