A Guide to Healthy "Keep the Cold Away" Concoctions

A Guide to Healthy "Keep the Cold Away" Concoctions

By: Pat St. Claire, CNN's Health Minute
Updated: November 26, 2012

It's technically still fall, but in many parts of the country, old man winter has already arrived. So now might be the perfect time to cuddle up with a good book and a cup of something comforting.

Nutritionists warn drinks can pack a lot of empty calories, so fill your cup wisely.

After a day of being outside in the chilly temperatures, what better time to have a nice cup of something hot and soothing? Tea, hot chocolate, and coffee can warm you to your toes, but which are the best for you?

Green tea:  Almost all doctors and dietitians will tell you there's nothing better than green tea.  Touted as a possible prevention for cancer and heart disease, scientists say the studies aren't conclusive, but the tea does contain antioxidants, that are known to be heart disease busters.  

Hot chocolate: Chocolate, especially dark cocoa, is good for you.  Packed with flavonoids,  cocoa has the potential to prevent heart disease, by opening the blood vessels.  Studies have shown dark cocoa can lower blood pressure, cut out bad cholesterol and even prevent diabetes. Making dark hot cocoa with skim milk cuts down on fat.  Adding two tablespoons of whip cream, can add 15  calories to one cup.

Coffee: Java gets a bad rap because of the caffeine.  But research shows coffee in moderation is good for you.  In a recent study out of Harvard, scientists found coffee may reduce the risk of developing gallstones, colon cancer, Parkinson's Disease and even improve your memory. Add skim milk, and a little sugar and you've got yourself a healthy drink.