A recent article in The Seattle Times suggests that there are a few ways in which individuals could reduce the number of unhealthy calories that they intake during the winter season. Gloria Tsang, a Washington-based registered dietitian, told the news source that during the holidays, there are many popular cold-weather beverages that contain fat, sugar and calories that can add to unwanted weight.

Tsang told the newspaper that using hot chocolate mixes that contain dark chocolate is one way to take advantage of antioxidants. The darker mixes are rich in flavenoids that act as antioxidants and are known to reduce swelling that contributes to heart disease, according to Tsang.

The National Institutes on Health reports that antioxidants can also be found in fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and some poultry.

She also suggested that cutting back on toppings for popular winter drinks can reduce a person’s calorie intake. For example, Tsang told the news provider that not adding whipped cream to a peppermint mocha can save an individual up to 70 calories while not using caramel in a glass of apple cider accounts for 25 less calories. Instead, Tsang suggested adding cinnamon to apple cider can help to improve blood sugar and cholesterol.

According to Tsang, substituting low-fat or skim milk instead of whole in hot chocolate or eggnogg is another way to have a healthier winter season, the news provider reports.