Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the concept of "medicine and food sharing the same origin." As early as thousands of years ago, our ancestors discovered that some foods possess medicinal properties and can be used to prevent and treat diseases. Today, these views are supported by modern science. Recently, the American "Rodale News Network" synthesized multiple latest studies, pointing out that there are 9 "food doctors" in the kitchen, all of which are experts at preventing and treating diseases.
Beans: Heart-Protectors
Beans are the cheapest healthy food. Beans are rich in isoflavones, which can protect the heart and prevent cardiovascular diseases. They have a low content of saturated fatty acids and are a high-quality source of protein for the human body. In addition, beans are beneficial for bone and prostate health and can relieve menopausal discomfort in women. Soybeans made into soy products are more easily absorbed, while other beans can be stir-fried, stewed, or used in soups, with their nutritional components being well preserved.
Braised Tofu with Fermented Black Beans
Garlic and Onion: Sterilization Guards
Garlic and onion are almost the most cost-effective "medicines" in the kitchen. Both belong to the Allium genus and contain antibacterial and antiviral compounds that help the body improve immunity to fight off "invaders." American research has also found that adding onions and garlic to the diet helps prevent multiple cancers such as esophageal, oral, and ovarian cancer. The 70 phytochemicals in onions and garlic can reduce the incidence of high blood pressure by 30%, and also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor effects. To maximize the sterilizing effect of garlic, it is best to crush it and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before eating, allowing substances like alliin and alliinase to interact to form allicin, which has higher health value.
Pea Jelly Salad
Celery: Blood and Intestinal Cleansers
Research has found that celery contains a compound called "phthalide," which can lower cholesterol. Additionally, the fine threads in celery are familiar to everyone; these are dietary fibers that promote gastrointestinal motility and expel intestinal waste. From these two points, celery can be deservedly called the "cleanser of blood and intestines." Moreover, celery is rich in minerals, vitamin C, and phenolic acids, which help the body resist the flu, alleviate allergies, and prevent cancer. Some nutrients in celery leaves are higher than in the stalk; for example, the carotene content is 88 times higher than in the stalk. When cooking, do not throw them away. They can be blanched and mixed with dried tofu for a salad, or chopped and mixed with meat filling for dumplings.
Celery with Dried Tofu
Cinnamon: Blood Sugar Specialist
A recent German study on type 2 diabetics points out that cinnamon can lower blood sugar by about 10%, and cholesterol and triglycerides by about 13%, thus reducing the risk of heart attacks in type 2 diabetics to a certain extent. Cinnamon is a "warm" natured traditional Chinese medicine, and abroad it has been used as an ingredient to produce dietary supplements. In the cold winter, drinking cinnamon as a tea has great health benefits, but the daily intake should not exceed 4 grams.
Braised Beef Shank with Tomatoes
Citrus Fruits: Cancer Busters
Citrus fruits contain nearly 200 anti-cancer compounds, making them true cancer busters. An Australian study found that daily consumption of citrus fruits can reduce the risk of oral, laryngeal, and stomach cancers by 50%. In addition, citrus fruits have a low glycemic index, especially grapefruit, which is particularly suitable for diabetics. In daily life, many people like to squeeze oranges and grapefruits for juice, thinking this is better for nutrient absorption. In fact, the juicing process loses a large amount of dietary fiber, significantly reducing the nutritional value of the fruit. Therefore, it is recommended to eat fruits directly.
Ginger: Pain Reliever
Ginger is a natural analgesic and detoxifier. A new study from the University of Miami found that ginger extract can significantly reduce inflammation and alleviate knee arthritis pain, with daily consumption of 1 ounce (about 30 grams) of ginger providing a significant pain-relieving effect. Additionally, ginger can kill the flu virus, fight infections, control cholesterol, and lower blood pressure. Ginger can be used in a variety of ways: stir-frying, marinating meat, or making ginger tea. In daily life, for people who are prone to motion sickness, sucking on a piece of ginger can relieve nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats.
Ginger-Orange Strips
Mint: Heat Dispertion Expert
Mint has a cool taste and is often used to make chewing gum and throat lozenges. The mint family includes hundreds of plants such as basil, rosemary, thyme, and lavender. Mint is pungent and cool, capable of dispelling wind and heat, clearing the throat, and improving symptoms like fever and cough caused by colds. Other studies have shown that mint contains a compound that can prevent the breakdown of the neurotransmitter "acetylcholine," thus helping to improve memory. In daily life, dried mint leaves can be steeped in water, while fresh mint leaves can be used for tea or in salads.
Mint-Coated Black Peanuts
Chili: Body Shaping Assistant
Chili peppers are very rich in nutrients. A single chili contains B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, carotene, folic acid, and other vitamins, and its vitamin C content is even higher than that of oranges and lemons. A study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" found that women who like to add two spoonfuls of dried chili powder to their meals absorb much less heat and fat than those who don't eat chili, and have slimmer figures. A study from the University of South Carolina points out that chili contains curcumin, which helps muscles recover after exercise and can strengthen muscles. Chili also contains lycopene, one of the strongest antioxidants in plants, with significant anti-cancer effects. Experts remind that although chili is good, it should be eaten in moderation. People with "heatiness," gastroenteritis, or hemorrhoids should eat less or no chili.
Kung Pao Rice Cakes
Pomegranate: Youth Protector
The pomegranate flesh is as red as agate and sweet and sour, very tempting, but the pomegranate seeds are even more nutritious. Pomegranate seeds are rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids, all of which are strong antioxidants that can delay aging and prevent and alleviate diseases caused by aging. Regular consumption of pomegranates can not only make the skin fair and tender but also prevent premature wrinkles and fade age spots. It is best to eat the flesh and seeds together. For friends with poor teeth or stomachs, it is best to drink it as juice.