India’s winter season is synonymous with an array of rich, hearty and delicious foods, many of which are packed with calories and nutrients designed to keep the body warm and energetic in the cold. Although these winter dishes are delicious, they have the potential to contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly due to their high fat and sugar content. We have listed the five most popular Indian winter-special foods that can help you gain weight. These foods are some of the most popular foods that can significantly contribute to weight gain when consumed in large quantities.
Read also: 7 weight loss tips with sweet potatoes in winter that you must try
Here are 5 winter foods that make you gain weight:
1. Peanuts (Peanuts)
Peanuts are a common winter snack across India. They are a rich source of protein, healthy fats and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an ideal energy booster during the colder months. Roasted peanuts, often served with a sprinkling of salt or spices, are rich in calories. A small handful can provide significant calories, which contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. The combination of fat (primarily unsaturated) and protein in peanuts can help build muscle and increase overall calorie intake, which is essential for those looking to gain weight.
2. Gajak (Sesame and Jaggery Cake)
Gajak is a popular winter sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery. This traditional sweet is rich in calories due to the high sugar content of jaggery and the fat of sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, proteins and minerals, while jaggery provides natural sweetness and energy. A small piece of gajak can provide a significant calorie boost. This is why it is often consumed in winter to increase stamina and maintain energy levels. Although it is an enjoyable winter dish, consuming it in excess can contribute to weight gain, as it is high in both sugar and fat.
Also read: 7 Winter Veggie Recipes That Whisper ‘Weight Loss’ and Scream ‘Delicious’
Peanut Gajak is a popular winter snack.
Image Credit: iStock
3. White Butter (Makhan)
During the colder months, many Indian families consume makhan, or white butter, made by churning cream. It is often served with dishes like parathas, rotis or as a topping on warm bread. White butter is high in saturated fat and contains a good amount of calories, making it an excellent food for those trying to gain weight. The high fat content helps keep the body warm and provides quick energy in cold weather. However, consuming too much white butter can lead to increased body fat if not balanced with other nutrients.
4. Mustard greens with corn bread
A staple dish of Punjab and other northern regions, sarson ka saag (mustard greens) with makki ki roti is a nutritious and calorie-rich meal that is often enjoyed during the winter months. The combination of mustard greens and butter or ghee provides a rich, hearty dish that is rich in fiber, vitamins and healthy fats. Ghee used in cooking saag or as a topping adds significant amounts of calories and fat. Additionally, corn bread is usually made from corn flour, which is denser and provides a good source of carbohydrates, further increasing the calorie count. This winter dish is an energy powerhouse, but it’s also easy to overdo it, contributing to weight gain.
Read also: Winter Special: Methi Chicken, Methi Pakora, and 7 other Methi dishes to try
5. Halwa (Carrot or Bottle gourd Halwa)
Halwa is a classic Indian sweet, and winter time is the best time to enjoy varieties like gajar ka halwa (carrot halwa) or lauki ka halwa (lauki ka halwa). Both of these are made from grated vegetables cooked in milk, ghee, sugar and cardamom. While carrot halwa made from carrots is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it also contains large amounts of sugar, milk and ghee, making it rich in calories. Ghee, in particular, adds fat to the dish, making it an easy way to add extra calories to your diet. Excessive consumption of these sweets during winter can lead to weight gain due to their high sugar and fat content.
Although these foods provide essential nutrients, moderation is important. Balancing these calorie-rich foods with regular physical activity and a balanced diet will help ensure that you enjoy the winter season without gaining unwanted weight.
