Introduction: Lidong, the first solar term after entering winter, is a season when Yang energy is hidden, Yin energy flourishes, plants wither, and hibernating insects lie dormant.
For more Lidong health recipes, we recommend the daily feature: Health Preservation in the 24 Solar Terms: Lidong & Seasonal Diet Therapy to Prevent Colds
Cold weather affects the human endocrine system, causing an increase in the secretion of thyroid hormones and adrenaline, which accelerates the breakdown of the three major thermogenic nutrients—proteins, fats, and carbohydrates—enhancing the body's ability to withstand the cold. However, it also leads to excessive heat loss. Therefore, it is highly beneficial to supplement the diet appropriately after Lidong to help combat the cold.
Prepare for Nourishment with "Yinbu"
After Lidong, it's important to give the digestive system a gradual adaptation process, which is why "Yinbu" (preparatory nourishment) is necessary. For example, you can consume mild dishes like peanut and red date soup or braised beef with ginger. Additionally, drinking hot porridge in winter is an excellent choice for health maintenance. Wheat porridge can nourish the heart and alleviate restlessness; sesame porridge can benefit essence and nourish Yin; radish porridge can aid digestion and resolve phlegm; and Poria porridge can strengthen the spleen and nourish the stomach.
Embrace Warm Foods, Avoid Cold Ones
In cold weather, moderately increasing the intake of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals is very helpful in resisting low temperatures. For example, eat more warming foods like glutinous rice, sorghum, chestnuts, jujubes, walnuts, longans, chives, pumpkins, ginger, beef, and mutton.
Increase Intake of Vitamins A and C
Increasing the intake of Vitamins A and C can enhance the body's adaptability to cold. Vitamin A is mainly found in animal liver, carrots, and dark green vegetables, while Vitamin C is primarily sourced from fresh fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, eating more chili peppers in winter can promote blood circulation and stimulate appetite.
Salty Flavors Nourish the Kidneys and Benefit Yin and Blood
Following the principles of "nourishing Yin in autumn and winter" and "nourishing the kidneys in winter," it is advisable to consume more umami-rich foods during the winter. Seaweed, nori, and jellyfish, for instance, have the effect of nourishing Yin and blood.