In rice, there are beans. Cereals are the mainstay of the traditional Chinese diet. However, highly polished rice loses its vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to the bran and germ. "In rice, there are beans"—by pairing rice with coarse grains like red beans and mung beans, this deficiency can be compensated for, creating a more comprehensive nutritional profile through a mix of refined and coarse grains. Furthermore, cereals are low in lysine but high in methionine, while beans are the opposite. When eaten alone, the protein in either is not well-absorbed. But when combined, a "protein complementary effect" often occurs, significantly improving protein absorption.
In dishes, there are greens. Leafy vegetables can be considered the "king of nutrients" among vegetables. They are rich in vitamin C, with some varieties even containing more than common fruits. They are also a source of abundant beta-carotene, which helps eliminate harmful free radicals in the body, slows aging, and prevents chronic diseases. Beta-carotene can be converted into vitamin A in the body, helping to maintain the normal function of the skin and the mucous membrane systems of internal organs. Leafy vegetables also contain large amounts of folic acid, calcium, magnesium, and dietary fiber, supplementing the body's essential nutrients. "In dishes, there are greens"—consume half a jin (about 250g) of vegetables daily, with at least half of them being leafy greens.
In meat, there are mushrooms. Meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, lipids, fat-soluble vitamins, B vitamins, and minerals for the human body, and it is an important part of a balanced diet. However, meat also contains saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, and excessive intake is detrimental to health. Fungi are low in fat and calories, high in dietary fiber, and rich in calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, and other nutrients, perfectly compensating for the shortcomings of meat.
In soup, there are algae. Common sea algae foods, such as seaweed and kelp, are rich and balanced in nutrients. Seaweed is rich in iodine, calcium, potassium, iron, selenium, choline, and other substances, and has functions such as enhancing memory and promoting dental and bone health. "In soup, there are algae" allows for the frequent, small-portion consumption of algae foods, while also enriching the flavor of the soup.