Nowadays, some fruits are available year-round, and people are also keen on these off-season fruits. However, many off-season fruits are ripened and preserved with chemicals, which not only have low nutritional value but can also harm the body. Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes health cultivation in harmony with the seasons—doing the right things and eating the right foods at the appropriate time. Experts suggest that avoiding off-season fruits is simple: eat seasonal ones. Fruits in season are not only fresh but also more nutritious.
January: Kiwi
Kiwi fruit, known as the "king of fruits," is a nourishing fruit for the elderly, children, and those who are weak or frequently ill. Kiwi should not be eaten with milk. Additionally, kiwi is considered cold-natured and should not be consumed in excess. People with a weak spleen and stomach, diarrhea, or those with threatened miscarriage, excessive menstrual flow, and frequent urination should avoid it.
February: Sugarcane
Sugarcane is highly nutritious, rich in sugar content, and exceptionally high in iron content, ranking first among fruits, hence it is known as the "blood-nourishing fruit." It should be noted that eating red-fleshed sugarcane can cause poisoning. People with a weak spleen and stomach or abdominal pain due to cold should avoid it.
March: Pineapple
Pineapple contains a substance called bromelain, which can break down proteins, dissolve fibrin and blood clots blocked in tissues, improve local blood circulation, and reduce inflammation and edema. Pineapple is sweet and neutral in nature, with functions such as strengthening the stomach to aid digestion, tonifying the spleen to stop diarrhea, and clearing the stomach to quench thirst.
April: Mangosteen
Mangosteen contains a special substance that has the effect of reducing dryness, cooling, and clearing heat. It is very nourishing for the body and has a good regulatory effect on the weak, malnourished, and those recovering from illness.
May: Strawberry
The carotene contained in strawberries is an important substance for synthesizing vitamin A and has the effect of improving eyesight and nourishing the liver. Strawberries also contain pectin and rich dietary fiber, which can help digestion and promote bowel movements.
June: Cherry
The iron content in cherries is as high as 59 mg, ranking first among fruits. The vitamin A content is 4 to 5 times higher than that of grapes, apples, and oranges. In addition, cherries also contain B vitamins, vitamin C, and mineral elements such as calcium and phosphorus.
July: Peach
Peaches have the effect of nourishing qi and blood, and nourishing yin to promote body fluids. They can be used for those with qi and blood deficiency, sallow complexion, emaciation, palpitations, and shortness of breath after a serious illness. The iron content in peaches is relatively high, making them an ideal supplementary food for patients with iron-deficiency anemia.
August: Watermelon
Watermelon can clear heat and relieve summer heat, as well as relieve vexation and quench thirst. The sugar and salt in watermelon can promote urination and reduce kidney inflammation. The protease in it can convert insoluble protein into soluble protein, increasing the nutrition of patients with nephritis. Fresh watermelon juice and tender rind can increase skin elasticity, making people look younger, reduce wrinkles, and add luster.
September: Grape
When the body has hypoglycemia, drinking grape juice in time can quickly relieve the symptoms. The flavonoids in grapes are powerful antioxidants that can fight aging and remove free radicals from the body. Grapes also contain a trace element that can prevent cancer, inhibiting the canceration of healthy cells and the spread of cancer cells.
October: Pear
Pears are rich in B vitamins, which can protect the heart, reduce fatigue, enhance myocardial vitality, and lower blood pressure. The glycosides and tannic acid in pears can relieve cough and reduce phlegm, and have a protective effect on the throat. The pectin content in pears is very high, which helps digestion and promotes bowel movements.
November: Apple
The pectin and trace element chromium in apples can help stabilize blood sugar and effectively lower cholesterol. The polyphenols and flavonoids in apples are natural antioxidants that can reduce the risk of lung cancer and prevent lead poisoning. The unique aroma of apples can relieve bad emotions caused by excessive stress and has the effect of refreshing the mind. Apples are rich in coarse fiber, which can promote gastrointestinal motility and help the body expel waste smoothly.
December: Orange
The carotene (vitamin A precursor) content in oranges is second only to apricots and higher than other fruits. Citrus fruits also contain multiple vitamins, as well as elements such as magnesium, sulfur, sodium, chlorine, and silicon.