In "A Discussion on Health Preservation", it is mentioned that "during spring, the taste of food should be less sour and more sweet to nourish the spleen. Excessive alcohol consumption and excessive consumption of corn cakes should be avoided as they can harm the digestive system and make digestion difficult." Excessive intake of sour foods can cause gastric acid secretion disorders and affect digestion and absorption. Excessive intake of sweet foods can damage the spleen. In spring, it is advisable to consume foods such as cherries, leeks, spinach, onions, ginger, garlic, honey, yam, and bamboo shoots that are beneficial for health.
When it comes to health preservation in spring, we should also consider our daily routine and diet, as these two aspects are integral to our daily lives.
First, the daily routine in spring:
Spring weather is often warm, as most people would think. However, it is important to note that spring weather is prone to changes and fluctuations in temperature.
With alternating cold and warmth, the body can be exposed to temperature differences, which can lower the body's resistance and make it vulnerable to cold pathogens. Therefore, it is important to avoid removing thick clothing too early in spring, especially for the elderly and those with weak constitutions. It can cause trouble if one suddenly reduces the amount of clothing worn.
It is recommended to have early bedtimes and early wake-up times in spring. It is also beneficial to engage in outdoor activities in the morning. This promotes harmony between body and mind, allowing for energy and vitality throughout the day.
Second, the diet in spring:
There are certain considerations when it comes to diet in spring. It is advisable to consume more foods that nourish yang energy and to avoid consuming acidic foods or beverages. The main reason for this is that the liver is associated with spring, and sour taste, among the five tastes, has a constricting effect on the liver, inhibiting the generation of yang energy in the body. Therefore, it is recommended to consume more sweet foods and to minimize or avoid consuming sour foods.
【Foods for Health Preservation in Spring】
1. Salted Duck Eggs
Eating salted duck eggs during the Dragon Boat Festival is a common tradition. There is a saying, "Eat salted egg zongzi to ward off the cold." After the Dragon Boat Festival, the hot summer arrives. The activities of plants and animals become vigorous, and with the humid climate, various diseases can easily occur. Eating salted duck eggs during the Dragon Boat Festival can help detoxify the body and maintain overall health.
2. Preserved Eggs
It is said that boiling eggs (chicken, duck, and goose) in the same pot while cooking zongzi, and eating the preserved eggs dipped in salt after eating sweet zongzi, can prevent skin problems for the entire summer. Additionally, if the duck eggs or goose eggs boiled with zongzi are exposed to sunlight at noon before eating, they can prevent headaches throughout the summer.
3. Eggplant
Eggplant contains solanine, which can inhibit the proliferation of tumors in the digestive system and has a certain effect in preventing and treating gastric cancer. Additionally, eggplant has a cooling effect, making it especially suitable for consumption in summer. Eggplant contains vitamin E, which can prevent bleeding and has anti-aging effects. Regular consumption of eggplant helps maintain cholesterol levels and slows down the aging process.
4. Eel
Eel, also known as snakefish or long fish, is a type of fish that lives in rivers, lakes, ponds, and rice fields. Eel meat is tender and delicious, rich in nutrients. Every 100 grams of eel meat contains 18.8 grams of protein, 0.9 grams of fat, as well as phosphorus, calcium, iron, vitamins, riboflavin, and niacin. It is a high-protein, low-fat food and an excellent supplement for those who are weak, malnourished, or recovering from illness.
5. Black Fungus
Eating black fungus during the Dragon Boat Festival is very beneficial for health. I usually prepare some black fungus for my family when someone has a cold or cough. Consuming black fungus helps to cleanse the intestines and remove lung dust.
6. Yogurt
Eating yogurt during the Dragon Boat Festival is also a good choice. Yogurt is helpful for those with chronic enteritis. As it is inevitable to eat zongzi during the Dragon Boat Festival, it is necessary to consume yogurt because it can aid in digestion.
7. Kelp
Eating kelp during the Dragon Boat Festival is also recommended. Kelp is not only rich in iodine and potassium, but it is also an excellent detoxifying and beautifying ingredient. Kelp is particularly helpful in promoting intestinal peristalsis and can be considered a "booster" for bowel movements.
【Teas for Health Preservation in Spring】
1. Chrysanthemum Tea: It has the ability to dispel wind-heat, clear the liver, and improve eyesight. It is a harmless and beneficial flower that also has weight loss effects. When combined with goji berries, it nourishes yin, clears heat, nourishes the kidneys, and improves eyesight.
2. Rose Tea: It can improve hormonal imbalances, promote smooth and elastic skin. Additionally, rose tea can prevent constipation, alleviate menstrual pain, and regulate menstrual cycles.
3. Chamomile Tea: It has a pleasant fragrance and has a calming effect. It can aid in sleep, stabilize emotions, and moisturize the skin. It can also be used as a nourishing agent for hair.
4. Peppermint Leaf Tea: It has a calming and digestive effect, and can also relieve headaches, stomach discomfort, or sore throat. It is a great product for boosting energy and vitality.
5. Lavender Tea: It can purify the mind, relieve tension and anxiety, and help with sleep. It can also soothe the digestive system and treat early-stage colds and coughs. Lavender tea is ideal for treating headaches and is an ideal herbal tea for relaxation.
6. Rosemary Tea: It is the best herbal tea for treating headaches. It not only enhances memory but also has a good effect on relieving menstrual pain.
7. Calendula Tea: It has excellent effects on digestive system ulcers and lymphadenitis and protects the digestive system while enhancing liver function. It can also relieve menstrual pain. It is recommended for women to consume more.
In spring, our bodies have strong metabolic capabilities. Therefore, during this time, it is beneficial to consume slightly spicy and light foods.
