5 Ayurvedic Mistakes to Avoid and 8 Comforting Vegetarian Soups for Winter

5 Ayurvedic Mistakes to Avoid and 8 Comforting Vegetarian Soups for Winter

Winter feels wonderful with cosy blankets, warm jackets and delicious food. But the cold season also brings some health concerns that we should not ignore. Low temperatures slow down our digestion, reduce our body’s natural warmth and sometimes make us feel bloated, tired or sick more often. That is why during winter, Ayurveda — India’s traditional health system — suggests a few special habits and foods to help the body stay strong and healthy.

Even though these suggestions are simple, many of us unknowingly follow wrong winter habits that can disturb our health. Thankfully, these mistakes can be easily corrected. And one of the most comforting ways to take care of digestion and warmth in winter is by having hot soups. Soups are easy to digest and provide steady energy in cold weather.

Below are 5 common Ayurvedic mistakes we must avoid in winter along with 8 vegetarian soups that are both healthy and delicious.

5 Ayurvedic Mistakes to Avoid in Winter

1. Drinking Cold Water

Cold water slows digestion and may cause gas or discomfort, especially during winter when the body needs warmth.

Better choice: Drink warm or room-temperature water throughout the day.

2. Skipping Breakfast

Many people skip breakfast to lose weight, but in winter, this can cause acidity and reduce morning energy.

Better choice: Have a warm and light breakfast like porridge, dalia, upma or soup.

3. Eating Raw or Cold Foods at Night

Salads and cold foods at night are harder to digest because digestive power reduces in the evening.

Better choice: Choose cooked and warm foods for dinner — soups, khichdi or steamed vegetables.

4. Sleeping Too Late

Irregular sleep harms immunity. Winter already brings laziness, and late nights make the body weaker.

Better choice: Sleep 7–8 hours and try to go to bed before 11 PM.

5. Avoiding Ghee or Oils Completely

Many avoid oil in winter while dieting. But Ayurveda says good fats help digestion, keep joints flexible and maintain warmth.

Better choice: Use a small amount of ghee, sesame oil or olive oil regularly.

8 Comforting Vegetarian Soups for Winter

A hot bowl of soup in winter gives comfort, supports digestion and protects the body from seasonal sickness.

1. Tomato & Basil Soup

Light and rich in Vitamin C, perfect for cold evenings.

Benefits

• Boosts immunity

• Helps soothe coughing and throat irritation

2. Carrot Ginger Soup

Carrot supports eye health, and ginger gives warmth from the inside.

Benefits

• Improves digestion

• Reduces cold and cough

• Keeps the body comfortably warm

3. Spinach & Lentil Soup

A complete meal with protein and iron — great for vegetarians.

Benefits

• Keeps blood healthy

• Gives long-lasting strength and stamina

4. Beetroot & Carrot Cream Soup

Colourful and nutritious — also great for glowing skin.

Benefits

• Improves oxygen supply in the body

• Makes hair and skin look healthier

5. Pumpkin Coconut Soup

Smooth and creamy while still light on the stomach.

Benefits

• Reduces acidity

• Helps better sleep

• Supports digestion

6. Mixed Vegetable Clear Soup

Loaded with different vegetables, very easy to digest.

Benefits

• Strengthens immunity

• Ideal for dinner after a busy day

7. Corn & Capsicum Soup

Corn adds sweetness, capsicum supplies Vitamin C.

Benefits

• Improves appetite

• Helps fight tiredness

• Refreshing taste with mild spice

8. Moringa (Drumstick Leaves) Soup

A traditional favourite known for strong nutrition.

Benefits

• Supports bone and joint health

• Helps increase iron levels

• Perfect for elderly people

Ayurvedic Tips for Best Results from Soups

✔ Add ginger, cumin, pepper or turmeric for stronger digestion
✔ Drink soups warm — neither too hot nor cold
✔ A small spoon of ghee or sesame oil helps nutrient absorption
✔ Choose soups for dinner instead of heavy meals
✔ Avoid too much butter or cheese

Who Should Be Careful?

If you have any of the conditions below, choose ingredients wisely:

• Diabetes (limit sweet vegetables)

• High acidity problems

• Kidney issues (avoid extra salt)

• Food allergies

Always listen to your body while trying new foods.

Winter health does not only depend on medicines or supplements. It depends on small, thoughtful choices — drinking warm water, sleeping on time and enjoying foods that support digestion. Soups are one of the best ways to stay warm and nourished during cold weather.
 

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for general wellness and educational purposes only. It should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any health concerns, food allergies or ongoing medical conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before trying new habits, recipes or dietary changes.