Healthy Comfort Foods

Posted by Max Ruby on August 1st, 2022

Cooking yourself or someone else something comforting can bring new life to the old adage: it's the little things that count. Many suffer when they lose their home, have a loved one go through tough times, or have health concerns. If you are going through a difficult time and find yourself suffering, cooking healthy may be the best way to get out of that funk. It may seem like a small thing, but making a decision to cook yourself something healthy that you can take to bed or on the road can bring new meaning to life.

Be encouraged, there are many good recipes out there that can help you bring life back into your everyday meals. The following is a list of comfort foods that have been known to bring happiness and smiles to people's faces when they are feeling down. You won't even have to go out of your way to make some of these because they are ingredients you probably already keep in your refrigerator or pantry.

1. Chili: As far as comfort foods go, chili is definitely up there. This flavorful dish can be made in several different ways, however, there is one thing that all chilis have in common: the beans. Beans are packed with nutrients and a great source of protein. They are also super cheap and taste great when mixed with many other foods.

2. Soup: There's usually nothing more comforting than a warm, comforting soup on a cold winter day. Soups are made from many different ingredients and take on several different flavors depending on what's in them.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Not all vegetables are created equal. Some vegetables are more healthy and some more unhealthy. The key word here is variety. Some vegetables like potatoes, corn, and carrots can be found for as little as --content--.25 a pound at the grocery store whereas others (like peppers) cost an arm and a leg if you have to buy them in larger amounts.

4. Fresh Fruit: In some families, fruit is a big deal. Luckily for those who struggle with diabetes and high blood pressure, fresh fruit doesn't have to be purchased at the store. Growing your own is not only possible but it's also cost effective from the standpoint of time, labor, and money.

5. Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a breakfast staple for many people but it can also be enjoyed at any time of day or night as a healthy snack or meal. Oatmeal is rich in fiber, which has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Oatmeal also contains many nutrients like potassium, thiamine, and vitamin E.

6. Vegan/Vegetarian Meals: Many people are becoming vegan or vegetarian for a number of reasons from health-related to ethical issues. There are many different ways you can prepare these foods for yourself or for your loved ones to make healthy eating compatible with your lifestyle.

Conclusion

Cooking healthy is a way to bring happiness, spark joy in your family, or give the new year a fresh start. Cooking has been a source of comfort for ages and we are still here. But cooking healthy comfort foods can be a better way of celebrating not only the holidays but every day of your life.