Just after the hot summer, with the arrival of autumn, the weather in the morning and evening feels cooler. How can the elderly take good care of their health in autumn, and what foods are beneficial for their health?
Tips for the Elderly to Stay Healthy in Autumn
1. Stay Hydrated
In autumn, the weather is dry, and the main pathogen is dryness. The body's fluid is prone to damage, so it is most important to stay well-hydrated in autumn.
2. Prevent Autumn Chills
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that autumn chills are beneficial to health, but not all elderly people are suitable for exposure to cold in autumn, especially those with cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, etc.
3. Pay Attention to Ventilation
Even when the weather turns cooler, it is important to keep the room well-ventilated. When the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors is 10°C, the indoor air can be exchanged in 15 minutes.
Avoid smoking indoors to reduce pollution. Maintain indoor humidity by wiping furniture with a damp cloth. It is advisable to install an exhaust fan in the kitchen and keep some plants in the courtyard or indoors to regulate air humidity.
4. Keep Warm
In autumn, do not rush to wear thick clothes. The elderly can wear additional layers of clothing as needed. Be mindful of keeping the back and chest warm during the cool mornings and evenings. It is advisable to wear a vest or sweater first if necessary.
When sleeping at night, it is best for the elderly to cover themselves with a blanket to avoid chilling the back. Additionally, it is important to wear an extra layer of clothing in the mornings and evenings to prevent catching a cold.
5. Exercise the Brain to Prevent Dementia
The main cause of dementia in the elderly is cardiovascular diseases. As the weather cools in autumn, peripheral blood vessels constrict and blood pressure fluctuates. Cold stimulation can also cause coronary artery spasms, affecting the blood supply to the heart and triggering angina or myocardial infarction.
The elderly should cultivate their own interests and hobbies to keep their cerebral cortex stimulated and active, preventing rapid atrophy of nerve cells. Engaging in mental activities such as playing chess or mahjong is an effective way to exercise the brain and prevent dementia.
Foods that Benefit the Health of the Elderly in Autumn
1. Chinese Cabbage
Chinese cabbage is a common and popular vegetable on our dining tables. It is especially recommended to eat more Chinese cabbage in autumn.
Chinese cabbage is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. It has been known as the "king of vegetables" since ancient times, which is why it is loved by the people.
2. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is rich in nutrients and has a high nutritional value. Research has found that young pumpkins have higher vitamin C and glucose content compared to mature pumpkins. Mature pumpkins also contain a large amount of calcium, iron, and carotene, which cannot be compared to young pumpkins.
In traditional Chinese medicine, pumpkin is considered warm in nature and sweet in taste. Regular consumption of pumpkin can help invigorate the middle energizer, reduce inflammation and pain, and detoxify and kill parasites.
3. Lotus Root
Lotus root is also a common vegetable on our dining tables. The root of the lotus is called lotus root, which is commonly known as "lotus root" in the south of China. It serves as both a fruit and a vegetable.
Research has found that lotus root contains a large amount of starch, protein, asparagus glycosides, vitamin C, and oxidases. In addition, it is also rich in sugars. These nutrients are important for our health.
Lotus root can be prepared in various ways, whether eaten raw or cooked, it can help clear heat, relieve irritability, quench thirst, and stop vomiting.
