Enjoying a bowl of warm soup during winter months can be extremely comforting.  However, soups can become very unhealthy when prepared with the wrong ingredients.  Many of us associate soups and salads as very healthy foods. Here are some suggestions for making healthy soups for everyone.

1. Avoid using cheese and heavy cream in soups.  These usually increase your weight and cholesterol. They may be flavorful but everyone has to consider health benefits over taste. Sour Cream is not healthy for soups too.

2. Use beans such as black eye peas, split peas, lentils, and barley in soups. These make soups more nutritious and healthy. They also give soups more color, texture and flavor. Barley soups are good for individuals whose immune system is weak.

3.  Onions, garlic, herbs and ginger are extremely recommended in soups.  Herbs provide more flavor to soups and are healthy. Also, they can be an extremely good substitute for cheese and creams that many individuals use to make their soups.

4. Use tomatoes, zucchini, pumpkin, leak and other vegetables to thicken soups.  These vegetables are heart healthy and can fight illnesses.  Puree vegetables after cooking and   incorporate into to soup. This is a good way to encourage kids to consume their soups.

5. Use whole wheat macaroni, spaghetti or noodles in soup since they have more nutrients. Reduce the amount of salt that is being used in soups.   Soya chunks can be added to soup for vegetarians. Avoid using potatoes since they are filled with starch.

6. Avoid using sausage and cured ham in soups. Use chicken, turkey, and lean meats instead. Red meats are not heart healthy so use sparingly.