Introduction: During the sweltering summer, people long for a cool respite. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) posits that this season sees the body's Yang energy radiate outward to the surface, leaving the interior vulnerable. Furthermore, the modern habit of consuming excessive cold foods in summer makes it especially important to nourish the Yang.
Walnuts
According to TCM, walnuts are warm in nature and help to tonify the kidneys and moisten the intestines. On scorching summer days, walnuts, rich in high-antioxidant substances like arginine, oleic acid, and vitamin E, can help our bodies effectively prevent aging.
Fig, Walnut, and Rye Bread
Ginger
As the saying goes, "Eat radishes in winter and ginger in summer." This is because the ancients believed ginger could raise the body's Yang energy. In fact, a component of ginger has antibacterial properties, and its pungent aroma can stimulate the appetite, making it a true summer staple.
Onion
Onions are pungent in taste and slightly warm in nature, with the effect of dispelling wind and cold. Eating raw onions can help prevent colds. They are also a food rich in powerful antioxidants that can inhibit aging caused by free radicals.
Mixed Onion and Wood Ear Salad
Dried Shrimp
Though small, dried shrimp have the properties of tonifying the kidneys, strengthening Yang, regulating Qi, and whetting the appetite. In the summer, adding a handful to a quick soup not only makes it delicious but also provides a substantial warming supplement.
Chinese Yam
During the summer, the spleen and stomach are weak, and the body's energy expenditure is high. Chinese yam, with its nourishing effects of fortifying the middle burner, replenishing Qi, and strengthening the sinews and spleen, replenishes Qi without causing stagnation, making it excellent for regulating the functions of the spleen and stomach.
Cinnamon-Sweet Purple Yam and Chinese Yam Rolls
No oil-free pancakes
A thousand pieces of fried meat
Boiled eggs