According to medical theory, nourishing the liver and detoxifying in the autumn can yield twice the result with half the effort. Among detoxification methods, dietary therapy is undoubtedly the most suitable. Nutritionists point out that eating more of the following foods can aid in detoxification.
1. Cucumber – Clears Heat and Promotes Metabolism
Modern medicine suggests that cucumbers contain cellulose, which helps promote intestinal peristalsis and accelerate excretion. Fresh cucumbers also contain malic acid, which can inhibit the conversion of carbohydrates into fat. However, cucumbers are considered cooling in nature, so individuals with a weak spleen and stomach or those who have been ill for a long time should consume them in moderation. Cucumbers are very suitable for cold salads, such as cucumber with wood ear fungus or garlic cucumbers. People with a weak spleen and stomach can stir-fry cucumbers or make cucumber dumplings.
Scalloped Cucumber
2. Black Fungus – The Blood Vessel Scavenger
A type of plant gum found in black fungus has strong adsorption properties. It can concentrate and adsorb dust and impurities remaining in the human digestive system and then expel them, thereby playing a role in detoxifying and cleansing the stomach. At the same time, it is also rich in nutrients such as iron, which can give the skin a ruddy complexion and help prevent iron-deficiency anemia. Black fungus can be stir-fried, eaten in a salad, or used in soups.
Cold-dressed Black Fungus
3. Asparagus – Clears Heat and Prevents Dry Mouth
Asparagus has a sweet and cold nature and has the effects of clearing heat and promoting urination. It can relieve common spring symptoms such as dry mouth and vexation. Asparagus is rich in water-soluble vitamins, but overcooking can easily cause these vitamins to be lost and also affects the unique crisp texture of asparagus. The suitable cooking methods are blanching followed by stir-frying or making a salad.
Stir-fried Fresh Asparagus with Shiitake Mushrooms
4. White Radish – Aids Digestion and Prevents Constipation
The radish is pungent in taste and cool in nature, with the effects of clearing heat and promoting fluid production, aiding digestion and resolving stagnation, and promoting the flow of qi to resolve phlegm. Modern medicine believes that radish has a good diuretic effect, and the cellulose it contains can also promote bowel movements, which is beneficial for weight loss. If you want to use radish for detoxification, you can eat it raw, by juicing it, or in salads and pickles.
Radish and Beef Brisket Soup
5. Kelp – Absorbs Fat and Reduces Bloating
Kelp contains a substance called fucoidan, which can absorb cholesterol from the blood and excrete it, keeping the cholesterol level in the blood normal. Kelp is an ideal food for detoxification and beauty. It is commonly eaten in salads or soups, but people with a weak spleen and stomach and pregnant women should not eat too much of it.
Chopped Chili Kelp