Now that we’re well into the autumnal months, the heaters, woolly hats, and jumpers are all likely to be making a very swift return!

Staying warm and cosy in your home, sitting on the sofa with a good show, that’s what we all like to hear; but what about a nice hot cup of healthy-something to go along with that?

1. Ginger Tea

Kicking off our list is something well-known, but perhaps not enjoyed as much as it should be!

Ginger is said to have several beneficial properties, and mixing it with hot water is a sure-fire way to allow those healthy bits and bobs to seep out.

One property of ginger that is often considered is ‘gingerol’, which is believed to be a favourite for all sorts of things; in particular: improved digestion, alleviating nausea, and helping our bodies to fight off cold and flu (which can be prevalent within the autumn and winter seasons).

If paired with a good diet and exercise, ginger has also been said to help with weight loss: ‘Study participants received relatively high daily doses — 2 grams — of ginger powder for 12 weeks [and] A 2019 literature review of functional foods also concluded that ginger had a very positive effect on obesity and weight loss.’

Whilst the above source goes on to add that additional studies are required to truly realise and solidify these findings, we can rest assured that we certainly won’t be seeing any negative effects!

2. Hot Lemon Water

Another well-known treat for our list today, but it’s important to highlight the benefits all the same.

Hot lemon water is often enjoyed in the colder months, and it’s not uncommon to hear about people having it in the morning or even seeing your co-workers drink it throughout the day.

But why is this simple drink so effective? Lemons contain high amounts of both Vitamin A and C, both of which are important nutrients for your body to perform at its best. Of course, lemons are not often eaten on their own, so adding a slice to hot water is a fantastic way to get through one.

A standard-sized, middle of the range lemon can expect to see you reach 92% of your recommended daily value for Vitamin C! You can still expect a strong dose of this vital vitamin due to the hot water extracting the juices.

If you would like more information on infused water, such as the likes of hot lemon and ginger, you can read a little bit more about it in one of our previous posts!

3. Green Tea

Green tea is another favourite for most mornings in place of the ‘builder’s brew’, but why is it considered healthy?

Many of the reasons to drink green tea are steeped in maybes, but there is one fact you can’t deny; the presence of polyphenols.

Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds, and whilst they aren’t a common and recommended part of your diet, they are proven to do some good for your body in subtle ways.

Most often present within plants, polyphenols are great for keeping living things going!

Polyphenols have been shown to improve heart health, lower the risk of diabetes, and raise your immunity against common illnesses. Whilst these effects are most often noticed later in life, and if you have a rich diet of polyphenols in your body, there is never any harm in absorbing these compounds where we can.

4. Spiced (Hot) Almond Milk

If you fancy making your own warm non-alcoholic cocktail, this is a great drink to create!

By taking a cup of almond milk and heating it, and proceeding to add small amounts of cinnamon, ginger, cayenne pepper, maple syrup, and almond butter, you can turn this regular glass of milk into a taste explosion!

We already know about the effects of ginger, and we can count the maple syrup as a well-deserved treat, but what benefits do the other ingredients have?

Almond milk is a great source of calcium (of course) and Vitamin E, and cinnamon contains anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatories for a further boost! Even almond butter can help us out, providing us with a great dose of monounsaturated fats, which can reduced cholesterol.

5. Turmeric Latte

Paired with ginger, vanilla, and honey, this coffee alternative is another excellent way to start your day off right (especially on cold weekday mornings).

A Turmeric Latte, alongside the other ingredients, simply calls for hot milk and a small amount of turmeric.

Whilst you can expect all the benefits of whichever milk you use, and the effects of ginger that we’ve already spoken about, turmeric also has something of its own to bring to the table.

Turmeric is shown to target inflammation, skin health, and even aid with acid reflux if that’s something else you may be experiencing.