A paper titled "Differences in Human Metabolism and Their Relationship with Diet and Blood Pressure," published in the journal Nature, pointed out that the internal organs of people in Guangxi, China, especially their intestines, are the healthiest. The reason for this is closely related to the local diet.
First, they eat more rice than flour
The staple food of Guangxi people is mainly grains such as rice and millet, supplemented by coarse grains like corn. Grains contain more starch than flour-based foods, which aids digestion and absorption and better promotes intestinal health. The traditional dietary features of Guangxi are: congee for breakfast and rice for dinner. For breakfast and lunch, they eat more congee with simple side dishes, often served with green vegetables, pickled vegetables, and dried radishes. Dinner is mainly rice with a variety of dishes. This approach ensures a balanced diet and prevents health problems caused by overindulging in rich and greasy foods.
Second, every meal includes something sour
Guangxi's specialty snack "Suan Ye" is made from fresh cabbage, carrots, papaya, and long beans, seasoned with sugar, vinegar, and ginger. Pickled foods not only stimulate the appetite and relieve fatigue, but the rich lactic acid bacteria, vitamins, and minerals they contain can inhibit pathogens in the small intestine, promote gastrointestinal motility, and aid in detoxification. There is a saying in Guangxi that a bowl of "pickled sour juice" can cure minor stomach ailments. Furthermore, Guangxi's unique pickling method (adding vinegar first, unlike the traditional method of adding salt first) can inhibit bacterial growth, effectively reduce the loss of vitamin C, and make the minerals in fruits and vegetables easier to absorb. The acetic acid in it also aids digestion and is very beneficial for gastrointestinal health.
Third, light cooking, stir-frying food until only 80% done
When Guangxi people stir-fry, they typically use high heat and cook quickly, usually leaving the food only 80% done. This avoids overcooking, ensuring that over 80% of the nutrients in the food are retained, especially the rich dietary fiber, which is beneficial for intestinal health and has detoxifying and laxative effects.
Fourth, the special terrain contains trace elements
Most of Guangxi has a typical karst landscape, which contains a variety of trace elements, minerals, and inorganic salts. This causes the local crops to be rich in various nutrients, which are easily digested and absorbed by the human body, benefiting the gastrointestinal tract and overall health.
Fifth, the diet follows the principles of "coarse, varied, vegetarian, light, and fresh"
This type of diet is characterized by low calories, low fat, low animal protein, low salt, low sugar, high fiber, and high vitamins. It meets the health requirements of dietary guidelines and is extremely beneficial for ensuring intestinal health and preventing chronic diseases.