Winter requires protection against the cold, and it is necessary to consume sufficient protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. While maintaining a diverse diet, the following 8 foods are especially recommended for keeping warm:
Milk
Milk is one of the best sources of nutrients for the human body. The protein in milk contains 9 essential amino acids. The fat particles are small and highly dispersed, making it easily digestible. The carbohydrates in milk are mainly lactose, which promotes the growth of lactobacillus and inhibits the growth of spoilage bacteria. In traditional Chinese medicine, milk is considered sweet and mild, with the functions of nourishing the body, moisturizing the intestines, and relieving thirst. In winter, it is especially important to pay attention to calcium intake, and milk not only contains abundant calcium but is also easily absorbed.
Black Soybeans
Black soybeans have the highest protein content among various types of beans, more than twice as much as pork leg meat. The fats it contains are mainly monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with essential fatty acids accounting for 50%. It also contains lecithin, soy isoflavones, and biotin, so consuming black soybeans can help lower cholesterol levels. In traditional Chinese medicine, black soybeans are considered mild and sweet, with the function of nourishing the intestines and replenishing blood.
Soybeans
Soybeans have a relatively complete nutritional composition. The protein in soybeans is a "complete protein" with a high content of lysine, which can compensate for the deficiency of lysine in grains. Soybeans can be used as both vegetables and substitutes for grains, making them particularly beneficial in winter. In traditional Chinese medicine, soybeans are considered sweet and have the functions of harmonizing the stomach, regulating the middle, invigorating the spleen, and nourishing qi.
Black Fungus
Black fungus contains a variety of trace elements, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, beta-carotene, mannose, xylose, lecithin, phospholipids, calcium, iron, and more. It has the effects of preventing blood clotting, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and constipation. In traditional Chinese medicine, black fungus is considered mild and sweet, with the functions of replenishing qi, benefiting the brain, and nourishing blood. It is effective for anemia, soreness and weakness in the waist and legs, and numbness in the limbs.
Dog Meat
Dog meat contains a lot of taurine and peptides, but very little fat. In traditional Chinese medicine, dog meat is considered warm and has the functions of replenishing qi, warming the kidneys, and dispelling cold. It is beneficial for back pain, aversion to cold, nocturia, and adding heat to the body.
Soybean Sprouts
Soybean sprouts are the product of soybeans soaking and germinating in water. During this process, the structure of the protein becomes loose due to the action of its own enzymes, increasing the digestibility and biological value of the protein. The content of vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, and water-soluble fiber also increases, making it an ideal high-nutrition vegetable.
Shiitake Mushroom
Shiitake mushrooms contain various vitamins and minerals, over 50 enzymes, free amino acids, choline, adenine, ergosterol, and shiitake polysaccharides. They have the effect of inhibiting the synthesis of cholesterol in the body, promoting the decomposition and excretion of cholesterol, and preventing elevated blood lipids.
Sea Bass
Sea bass contains abundant and easily digestible protein, fat, vitamin B2, niacin, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, iron, selenium, and more. In traditional Chinese medicine, sea bass is considered warm and sweet, with the functions of invigorating the spleen and stomach, nourishing the liver and kidneys, and relieving cough and resolving phlegm. In winter, sea bass is fat and delicious, with delicate flesh, making it the best season for enjoying it.
