When seeing a doctor and getting a prescription, they often advise not to eat irritating foods during the medication period. For some illnesses, "fa wu" (trigger foods) should also be avoided. So, what exactly are considered irritating foods and "fa wu"?
A healthy diet suggests that everyone should try to eat fewer irritating foods, as they can affect the normal functions of the gastrointestinal system and more.
Irritating foods are not just spicy ones; they include many items such as tobacco, alcohol, coffee, strong tea, and various spicy seasonings like green onions, ginger, garlic, chili, pepper, and curry. If you are unwell or have certain conditions, such as skin diseases, allergies, gastritis, hemorrhoids, liver disease, prostatitis, insomnia, etc., you should be especially mindful to eat fewer or no irritating foods. Also, during certain seasons or for specific groups of people, such as spring and summer when skin diseases are more common, or pregnant and breastfeeding women, it's also important to limit these foods. Do not consume any alcohol while taking medication.
In general, fruits are not considered irritating foods. However, some people may be allergic to fruits like mangoes, pineapples, or pomegranates and should eat fewer or avoid them. Very sour fruits can also irritate the gastrointestinal tract for those who are sensitive.
"Fa wu" (trigger foods) encompass a wide range of items. You can ask your doctor for advice based on your specific situation, as each case is unique. Common "fa wu" we often hear about in folk wisdom include: ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, black pepper, lamb, dog meat, shrimp, crab, goose, eggs, toon sprouts, and various fishy foods.
Additionally, while taking medication, it's also advisable to eat fewer fried foods like youtiao (fried dough sticks) and youbing (fried pancakes), and to avoid various "raw and cold" foods such as watermelon, pears, and persimmons.