On November 22, we welcomed the "Slight Snow" solar term in the 24 seasonal divisions. During this period, the yang energy in nature rises, while the yin energy descends, signaling the official onset of winter. As a result, food enthusiasts are gearing up for the season’s delights!

 

There’s an old saying: "Pickled vegetables for Slight Snow, pickled meat for Great Snow." The cold weather is the perfect time for making cured meats and pickled vegetables. In the North, people pickle sauerkraut, while in the South, they prepare cured meats, sun-dry fish, and eat glutinous rice cakes. These practices are valuable health habits passed down by our ancestors, in tune with the changing seasons.

 

 

 

 

However, the weather remains dry at this time, and the body is prone to internal heat, leading to issues like mouth ulcers and dry mouth and nose. If not properly managed, winter supplementation may exacerbate these discomforts. Therefore, it’s important to adjust our diet and lifestyle according to the seasonal changes. What are the key points for supplementation during the Slight Snow period? Let’s take a closer look.

 

Nourishing According to the Seasons: Choosing Foods with Seasonal Flavors

 

1. Winter Supplementation: Eat More "Roots"

   - Recommendation: Root vegetables

   - Reason: As winter temperatures drop, the body requires more energy to maintain warmth, and root vegetables, which are rich in carbohydrates, provide the necessary caloric intake. Nutritional experts particularly recommend root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, purple potatoes, yams, and potatoes to help meet the nutritional needs of winter and ensure a comfortable winter season.

 

 

2. Nourish the Kidneys: Eat More Black Foods

   - Recommendation: Black foods such as black rice, purple rice, black beans, black sesame, black fungus, and black dates.

   - Reason: The kidneys are considered the source of vitality, and winter is the season to nourish them. Black foods are believed to support kidney health, resist the cold, and moisturize the lungs. Additionally, Reishi mushrooms, which are said to nourish the heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys, align with the "conserving" principle of winter according to traditional Chinese medicine, promoting vitality. Modern research has confirmed that Reishi supports immune function, has antioxidant effects, clears free radicals, and protects the heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys. Adding Reishi during winter supplementation enhances the overall therapeutic effects.

 

3. Eat More Soups and Porridge, and Stay Hydrated

   - Recommendation: Hot soups and porridge, such as wheat porridge to nourish the heart, radish porridge for digestion, and jujube porridge to tonify the qi and nourish yin.

   - Reason: Adequate hydration is important for metabolism. It’s best to drink a cup of warm water on an empty stomach each morning to reduce blood viscosity and prevent cardiovascular issues. Reishi honey water can moisturize and detoxify, while white radish water is beneficial for clearing heat and promoting urination, and pear water helps moisturize the lungs and stop coughing. These beverages are excellent choices for the season.

 

 The picture shows Reishi wolfberry tea.

 

Winter Supplementation: The "Three Avoidances"

 

1. Avoid Overeating or Eating Excessively Rich Foods

   - Reason: Overindulgence in fatty, rich foods can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort. It’s also essential to maintain regular eating habits with three meals at consistent times.

   - Traditional Wisdom: The Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine) warns of the dangers of overeating: "Excessive eating harms the stomach and intestines… irregular diet and lifestyle cause digestive issues, leading to bloating, diarrhea, and chronic gastrointestinal disorders."

 

2. Avoid Blind Supplementation and Nutrient Overload

   - Reason: Overconsumption of meat and fatty foods often leads to nutrient excess, which can manifest as "dampness," "stagnation," or "phlegm" in the body. These imbalances negatively affect sleep and overall health.

 

3. Avoid Spicy, Fried Foods

   - Reason: Spicy foods (such as chili and ginger) and fried foods can irritate the digestive system and increase internal heat, especially when consumed before bedtime. This disrupts a peaceful sleep.

 

As snow falls across the land, the year draws to a close. Supplementing with Reishi helps replenish vital energy, nourish longevity, and restore balance to the body, offering the most fundamental nourishment for the winter season.

 

 

Source:  

Health Times, "Slight Snow is Here: 4 Taboos to Avoid and 5 Health Tips to Remember," November 22, 2023