In autumn, the weather is crisp and clear, with a rich fragrance of ripening grains. It is a season of pleasant weather. As temperatures cool down from the summer heat, the body's energy expenditure decreases, and the appetite begins to increase. Therefore, the elderly can adjust their diet according to the characteristics of autumn to scientifically nourish the body and maintain health.
Most fruits ripen in autumn, and there is a wide variety of melons, fruits, and beans. Fish, meat, poultry, and eggs are also abundant, expanding the range of food choices. At this time, the key to dietary planning is to ensure a balanced diet.
The autumn climate is dry, and while nights are cool, daytime temperatures can still be high.
Heat consumes body fluids and energy, and dryness further depletes them. Therefore, in addition to paying attention to daily routines, one should follow the principle of "moisturizing what is dry" and focus on foods that nourish yin, clear heat, moisten dryness, quench thirst, and calm the mind. Foods with moisturizing properties, such as sesame, honey, tremella (snow fungus), and dairy products, are good choices.
In autumn, the air is less humid and the wind is stronger, causing sweat to evaporate more quickly from the body. This can lead to dry skin and the loss of water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins B1, B2, and C. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate intake of both water and vitamins throughout the autumn. Eating more fresh vegetables and fruits is recommended. If necessary, one can take 1-2 tablets of a vitamin B complex and 50 mg of vitamin C daily. This not only greatly benefits overall health but also helps prevent the degenerative changes that can occur in the body during autumn.