In winter, the climate is cold and the body is affected by the cold air, resulting in weakened energy and changes in physiological functions and appetite. At this time, it is necessary to supplement the body. So, what are the foods suitable for winter supplementation? What principles should be followed when supplementing in winter? Let's take a look together.
【Principles of Winter Supplementation】
1. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables
In winter, there are many fresh fruits, such as pears, grapes, and pomegranates. According to traditional Chinese medicine, pears have the function of moistening the lungs, relieving cough, and transforming phlegm. Grapes can replenish qi and essence, and nourish the liver and kidneys. From a nutritional perspective, fruits and vegetables are rich in various vitamins, minerals, and plant chemicals with antioxidant effects. These nutrients are beneficial for delaying aging, preventing cancer, and maintaining overall health. However, fruits contain some sugar, so they should not be consumed excessively by people with high blood sugar. People with a cold spleen and stomach should avoid consuming too many fruits with cooling properties to prevent discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Consume warm foods and avoid cold foods
In winter, it is not advisable to eat excessively cold foods, especially foods taken directly from the refrigerator. It is better to consume warm foods to avoid discomfort in the digestive system.
3. Stay hydrated
Water is the most abundant substance in the human body. In winter, the air is dry, so it is important to replenish the body with water in a timely manner. Thirst is a delayed signal of dehydration, so do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink water.
4. Eat meat and eggs in moderation
Many people focus on supplementation in winter, but eating too much meat can burden the digestive and metabolic organs. It is wise to consume meat and eggs in moderation, avoid fatty meats, and choose poultry with easy digestion and lower fat content.
5. Emphasize grains and potatoes, and include coarse grains
Grains and potatoes should be the main foods, and the combination of coarse and fine grains can provide a more comprehensive range of nutrients. Foods such as yams, sweet potatoes, and taro belong to the potato category and contain more dietary fiber and micronutrients than rice and white flour. It is a good choice to replace some staple foods with these alternatives. According to traditional Chinese medicine, yams have a sweet and neutral taste and are associated with the spleen, lungs, and kidneys. They have the effects of tonifying the spleen and stomach, nourishing the lungs, and tonifying the kidneys. They are suitable for consumption in autumn and winter.
【6 Recommended Foods for Winter Supplementation】
1. Chinese Date
Chinese dates contain various amino acids and vitamins needed by the body, especially a high content of vitamin C, which can enhance the immune system and prevent colds. In addition, they are rich in carbohydrates and adenosine triphosphate, which can effectively protect the liver and cardiovascular system. However, they should not be consumed in large quantities by those with bloating, diabetes, or gastric inflammation or ulcer. When eating raw dates, the skin should be removed for those with gastritis or gastric ulcers.
2. Winter Bamboo Shoots
Winter bamboo shoots are low in fat and sugar, and high in fiber. Regular consumption can promote intestinal peristalsis, eliminate food stagnation, and reduce the absorption and accumulation of fat in the gastrointestinal tract. It should be noted that winter bamboo shoots contain a relatively high amount of oxalic acid, so they should be consumed in moderation by those with kidney stones or gout. Before consumption, they should be blanched to remove the oxalic acid.
3. Winter Mushroom
Winter mushrooms are low in calories and high in protein and vitamins. They provide a variety of essential vitamins and promote the absorption of calcium in the body. Regular consumption of mushrooms can enhance the immune system and prevent colds. They are suitable for all age groups, especially beneficial for preventing hypertension and hyperlipidemia. The dietary fiber in mushrooms helps eliminate excess cholesterol from the body.
4. Winter Melon
Winter melon has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate symptoms of coronary heart disease, edema, and bloating. Winter melon is high in water content and low in calories. It contains many nutrients that can prevent the accumulation of fat in the body, making it effective in reducing weight and lowering cholesterol levels.
5. Goji Berry
Winter is a good season for nourishing the kidneys, and goji berries are an excellent choice for kidney nourishment. Goji berries have a sweet and neutral taste and are associated with the liver and kidneys. They can tonify the kidneys, nourish the liver, improve eyesight, nourish the blood, calm the mind, and relieve thirst. In the dry and cold winter, goji berries can also relieve dryness and watering of the eyes.
