Undoubtedly one of the world’s best comfort foods, and not only when we’re sick. Soup also makes for an incredibly comforting weeknight meal during the winter months.

The best thing about soup is that not only is it delicious, but it’s also very good for you – of course not counting the ones that have copious amounts of butter or cream as their main ingredient. In addition to being healthy, it is also a fuss-free way to meal plan for the week; simply put together a large pot and your dinner for the next 4-5 days is sorted. They also keep well in the fridge, re-heat easily, and are more delicious over time.

With so many benefits, I figured it was time I looked into the reasons soup is good for you and why we should be incorporating them more often into our diets. Let’s get started:

• Soup is a great way to reach your goal of 3-5 vegetables per day; simply check what you have in your fridge and toss them in. It also allows you to use up any vegetables that are just about to pass their prime.  In short, they make for excellent nutrition, whilst also helping you eliminate waste.  

• Soup is cost efficient and easy to prepare; bear in mind however, easy does not necessarily mean that it isn’t time consuming. Let’s face it, you will need to put some time aside to chop and prepare all your ingredients, but hey, once that’s done, the rest is a breeze. If you’re short on time, simply opt for frozen pre-chopped vegetables and you’re good to go!

• Soup keeps you hydrated; especially during the winter when we tend to eat more food and drink less water, as a result of the weather not being so hot. Nonetheless, your body still loses and needs fluids during this time, and soup is a great way to get you there whilst also keeping you full.

• Soup is good for your immune system; since most soups are loaded with healthy nutrients such as vegetables and stock, they are a great way to ward off viruses and help you recover when sick.

• Last, but certainly not least; soup is delicious; it tastes like home and makes you feel like a kid – or maybe that’s just me.

Check out the yufeed app for some healthy and nutritious soup recipes to get you through the winter months.