Breakfast should consist of hot food to protect the 'stomach qi'. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stomach qi is a broad concept that not only refers to the stomach organ itself but also includes the digestive and absorption abilities of the spleen and stomach, acquired immunity, and muscle function. In the morning, the yin energy from the night has not yet dissipated, and the earth's temperature has not yet risen. The body's muscles, nerves, and blood vessels are still in a state of contraction. If you consume cold food and drinks at this time, it will inevitably cause all bodily systems to constrict further and impede blood circulation.
At first, you may not feel any discomfort in your stomach or intestines after consuming cold food and drinks. But over time, you might start to experience poor absorption, loose stools, worsening skin condition, a persistent phlegmy throat, or frequent colds. This signifies damage to the stomach qi and a weakened body's resistance.
Therefore, you should enjoy hot congee, hot oatmeal, hot tofu pudding, hot soy milk, sesame paste, or Chinese yam porridge for breakfast.