The autumn climate is dry, and we eat a lot of fruit to replenish the body's moisture. However, everything should be in moderation, and excessive consumption of autumn fruits is not entirely beneficial to the body.
1. Pomegranate: Contains a large amount of fructose and various vitamins and minerals. It is sweet in taste and warm in nature, making it a damp-heat fruit. Pomegranate is effective for dysentery, rectal prolapse, and pharyngitis, but those with a weak constitution, yin deficiency, and internal heat should consume it with caution. Those with early-stage diarrhea or damp-heat should not eat the fresh fruit. Even for healthy people, excessive consumption can damage teeth and cause loss of appetite.
2. Pear: Has effects such as relieving coughs, reducing phlegm, and clearing dryness. It is effective for treating coughs, asthma, wind-heat, and pharyngitis. Due to its cold nature, those with a weak spleen and stomach, clear salivation, or loose stools should consume it with caution. Also, because of its high sugar content, excessive consumption can raise blood sugar, so diabetics should eat it in small amounts.
3. Citrus: Contains a large amount of carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the blood, causing the skin to turn yellow, leading to "carotenemia," commonly known as "yellowing syndrome." This is followed by a range of symptoms including nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and general fatigue. After developing "yellowing syndrome," one should consume a moderate amount of vegetable oil and drink plenty of water to accelerate its dissolution, conversion, and excretion.
4. Persimmon: Contains large amounts of vitamins A and C, as well as tannic acid. It is nutritious and has effects such as lowering blood pressure, stopping bleeding, clearing heat, lubricating the intestines, moistening the lungs, and promoting fluid production. However, it contains a large amount of persimmon tannin and pectin. When it comes into contact with stomach acid, it condenses into a fibrous mass, known as a "bezoar," causing epigastric pain and indigestion. Furthermore, because pectin has an astringent effect, it should be avoided by those with constipation. It should not be taken on an empty stomach, nor should it be eaten with crabs or sweet potatoes, as this can more easily lead to bezoar formation.
5. Apple: Apple juice can stop diarrhea, eating it on an empty stomach can treat constipation, and eating it after a meal can aid digestion. However, apples are rich in sugars and potassium salts, and excessive consumption is not beneficial for heart and kidney health. Those with coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, nephritis, or diabetes must avoid eating too many.
Autumn is the harvest season for many fruits, and the fruits at this time are the most nutritious and healthy. However, everyone should also remember these taboos.