Even the sunniest days are now paired with a sharp cold wind, and the best solution is a nice hot drink! Pumpkin spice lattes are around every corner, in every hand, and even the Sharetea nearby the school has released a seasonal pumpkin flavored drink. Yet, we neglect every other amazing option out there to warm ourselves with something that tastes delicious!
The most recent and prominent trend this year, matcha, is an obvious choice to pick up at the cafe. Although most people opt for an iced version, why not try out a nice steaming cup next time? It can be described as the Eastern parallel to the pumpkin spice, though one of the former’s benefits is its lower sugar content and digestive benefits. But for those who don’t like the unique taste, perhaps something more citrusy would hit the spot! Happy Lemon, a boba shop, offers freshly squeezed lemon or kumquat teas, both hot and cold. The flu season is already making its first few waves around Bothell, and you can get ahead of it with a simple drink! Lemons can boost your immune system with antioxidants and vitamins, though the sacrifice will be a larger sugar content.
If all the caffeine isn’t your cup of tea, you can get the same benefits with orange juice (a small trick: microwave a cup of it to a warm temperature). Something similar could even be heated milk, an age old sleep-helper that’s rich in vitamin D. A common occurrence in people who live near Seattle, due to the lack of sun during the winter, is a vitamin D deficiency that can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness and increased symptoms of depression, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But beyond drinks is something bigger and better: soup. From chicken noodle to squash to lentil to tomato; there’s just something about a serving of soup when it’s gloomy outside. Pressing your hands around the toasty bowl, enjoy a food with minimal chewing requirements that can be packed with proteins, greens, spices, and most importantly: water. Keep hydrated, especially during the school stress and college applications for many seniors, and explore some tasty ways to do it for these next few rainy months!
