Winter foods as allies

Winter at the AbanoRitz has a charm all its own. The air is crisper, the Euganean Hills take on wintry hues, and the pace slows, inviting you to take care of yourself. After the holidays, during which it’s easy to indulge, January is the ideal time to regain balance and energy, without resorting to drastic diets or overly strict detoxes. The secret is simple: eat well, choosing seasonal foods that support your metabolism, immune system, and intestinal health.

The Veneto region, and especially the area surrounding Abano, offers an extraordinary variety of fruits and vegetables perfect for this purpose in winter. Citrus fruits are also abundant on our tables—oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, and lemons, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and combat the fatigue typical of the cold months.

Alongside citrus fruits, kiwis deserve special mention, also grown in various areas of Northern Italy. The European Commission officially recognizes them as allies of intestinal health: a single fruit can provide up to 70-90 milligrams of vitamin C, covering almost the entire daily requirement. Additionally, they provide potassium and fiber, which are essential for a balanced microbiota.

Apples and pears, ever-present in the Veneto countryside, contain pectin, a soluble fiber that facilitates digestion and helps regulate intestinal activity.

Winter, however, is above all the season of “strong” vegetables, those that help the body cope with the cold. Cauliflower, red cabbage, cabbage, Savoy cabbage, and broccoli are typical vegetables of this period and true allies of well-being: they support the metabolism and immune system. Cabbage, in particular, contains anthocyanins, antioxidants often referred to as “longevity molecules.”

For those suffering from constipation, fennel is an excellent seasonal companion thanks to its insoluble fiber, while artichokes—also highly prized in local cuisine—provide primarily soluble fiber, which selectively nourishes the “good” bacteria in the intestines. A single serving can cover about half of your daily fiber requirement.

It’s precisely through small daily gestures—a breakfast with citrus fruits and kiwi, a lunch with seasonal vegetables, a light but fiber-rich dinner—that we build a profound sense of well-being, capable of accompanying us year-round.