Cold climates and hot drinks are inextricably linked, but they tend to be as comfortable as hot chocolate steamed mugs, but at the same time quite luxurious. Classic cocoa is made from whole milk that contains saturated fat and large amounts of refined sugar. It also does not include toppings such as whipped cream or marshmallows.
For example, Starbucks Grande Hot Chocolate weighs a whopping 370 calories, 16 grams (g) of fat (10 g from saturated fat) and 43 g of carbohydrates (37 g from sugar).
Fortunately, there are many ways to stay comfortable without compromising your health goals. And there are many reasons to drink it up. Studies show that hot drinks are a great way to maintain hydration and are an important habit all year round, but they tend to get lost in the winter. They can also be an unexpected way to add health-enhancing nutrients to your diet.
The comfort you get from drinking steamed drinks is not a coincidence. According to past research, social isolation allows people to get hot food and drink. In particular, there is evidence that warm milk-based drinks have a calming effect. According to a study published in September 2021, researchers provided preliminary evidence that a combination of milk peptides known as casein trypsin hydrolyzate (CTH) appears to relieve stress and enhance sleep. I found it in. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry..
Not surprisingly, if you make your own hot drink, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences, such as non-dairy milk alternatives, if needed. Whatever type of drink you use, whipping before adding it to your drink is a great way to make your drink more satisfying and save a few calories. Whipping is basically just adding air to the milk to lightly whisk the milk. You can use a handheld milk whisk, soak blender, or whisk or try this hack. Place warm milk in a jar with a lid that has a little space for air and shake well.
A note: Extremely hot fluids have been shown to increase the risk of developing esophageal (throat) cancer.Studies published in International Journal of Cancer In March 2019, people who regularly drank tea above 140 degrees Fahrenheit were found to be 41% more likely to develop laryngeal cancer in 10 years than those who drank tea below 140 degrees Fahrenheit. I did. Therefore, if you are enjoying an almost boiling drink, consider letting it cool for a few minutes before taking your first bite.
Are you ready to feel warm and cozy? Try these delicious and healthy drinks to bring a little warmth and comfort even on the coldest days.
Related: How winter affects our diet
