Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet during winter to enhance immunity and adapt to colder temperatures, highlighting specific dietary recommendations to prevent common winter illnesses. Group 1: Energy Supply - Adequate energy intake is crucial in winter as the body requires more calories to maintain normal temperature and physiological activities, necessitating an increase in caloric consumption [2] - It is recommended to mix staple foods like rice and grains, incorporating options such as millet, corn, and whole grains to ensure a balanced diet [2] - Daily oil intake should be controlled to below 25 grams, preferably using unsaturated fats from plant oils, while avoiding excessive animal fats [2] Group 2: Protein Intake - Sufficient protein intake is essential for synthesizing antibodies that help the body resist cold and infections, with recommendations to include lean meats, fish, eggs, and dairy in meals [3] - Each meal should ideally contain about one-third of protein, with specific examples provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner [3] - While animal proteins are generally superior, care should be taken to avoid excessive fat intake, with suggestions for lean cuts of meat [3] Group 3: Vitamins and Minerals - Increased demand for vitamins related to energy metabolism, particularly vitamin B2, is noted, with animal liver, eggs, and milk as good sources [4] - Vitamin C is highlighted for its role in enhancing cold resistance and collagen synthesis, with fresh fruits and vegetables recommended, particularly winter jujubes [5] - Vitamin A is important for maintaining the health of epithelial tissues, with suggestions for daily vegetable intake to ensure adequate levels [5] Group 4: Calcium and Iron - Calcium intake is emphasized, especially for children and the elderly, with dairy products recommended as primary sources [6] - Iron-rich foods are necessary to support blood circulation and immune function, with animal sources being more easily absorbed than plant sources [7] Group 5: Zinc and Dietary Practices - Foods rich in zinc, such as red meat and shellfish, are recommended to reduce infection risk during winter [8] - It is advised to avoid raw and cold foods to prevent gastrointestinal irritation, and to limit the consumption of overly fatty foods to maintain digestive health [9][10]