MoneySavingExpert (MSE), founded by Martin Lewis, is advising people struggling to stay warm this winter to follow an NHS-backed rule: have at least one hot meal a day. The advice is part of the team's 'heat the human, not the home' guidance, which suggests that heating yourself rather than the whole house can be more effective for those finding it difficult to keep warm.
NHS advice on eating for warmth
The MSE website states: "The NHS says eating regularly will help keep you warm, and says you should have one hot meal a day. It also recommends drinking hot drinks regularly." The health service explains that having at least one hot meal a day helps the body stay warm, maintain energy levels, and fight off infections during cold weather.
The NHS adds: "Even if you do not feel very hungry, your body still needs fuel to stay healthy and maintain its temperature. Try to eat regular meals throughout the day and include a variety of foods from the main food groups."
Affordable meal ideas and support options
Affordable hot meals can include quick home-cooked pantry staples, such as soup and porridge, which are cheap, filling, and can be cooked with minimal impact on energy bills. The NHS suggests low-cost options including homemade soups with vegetables, beans or lentils; stews, casseroles and other one-pot meals; jacket potatoes topped with beans, tuna or cheese; porridge or other warm cereals; wholegrain toast with eggs, beans or peanut butter; and warm drinks such as tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
For those struggling to afford both food and energy, the MSE website lists several sources of help, including asking your local council about the Crisis and Resilience Fund, checking if you live near a social supermarket or community shop, and trying your local foodbank, which gives out free parcels providing at least three days' worth of in-date, non-perishable food.
