Stomach-strengthening and appetite-boosting during the Midsummer Heat: three types of potatoes to eat more of.

What to eat for health during the dog days of summer? We are currently in the "mid-summer" period (zhongfu), which is not only hot but also very humid. It's important to expel dampness, prevent "emotional heatstroke," and protect the spleen and stomach. So, what should you eat to beat the heat during mid-summer? Below, we introduce three types of tubers for mid-summer health; remember to eat more of them during this season.

One, Purple Sweet Potato—Protects Blood Vessels and Prevents Allergies

Preventing cardiovascular diseases and allergies in the summer are issues many people have to face. From a dietary perspective, you might consider eating purple sweet potatoes. Purple sweet potatoes are rich in iron, selenium, and anthocyanins. Selenium and iron are essential elements for the body to combat fatigue, aging, and to replenish blood. Selenium, in particular, is known as the "king of anti-cancer" and is easily absorbed by the body. Anthocyanin is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from damage caused by harmful substances called free radicals. Anthocyanin can also enhance blood vessel elasticity, improve the circulatory system, suppress inflammation and allergies, and improve joint flexibility.

Purple Sweet Potato Multigrain Steamed Cake

Two, Chinese Yam (Shanyao)—Moisturizes Skin, Nourishes the Skin, and Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach

During this season, you should eat more foods that clear heat and relieve summer heat, such as Chinese yam. The scientific name for Chinese yam is Dioscorea opposita, and it contains an important nutrient called dioscin, known as a natural DHEA (also called "youth hormone"). It contains various basic hormonal substances, earning it the title "mother of hormones." It can promote the synthesis of endocrine hormones, accelerate the metabolism of skin epidermal cells, enhance the skin's moisture-retaining function, and also helps improve physical constitution. In summer, irregular eating habits and a preference for raw, cold foods can easily lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, and eating some Chinese yam can help with this.

Jade Tai Chi Chinese Yam

Three, Potato—Prevents Emotional Heatstroke

The dog days of summer are hot and scorching, and people are prone to becoming "irritable" (ganhuo), leading to abnormal behaviors such as irritability, listlessness, disordered thinking, loss of appetite, and impatience and anxiety. This is "emotional heatstroke." "Emotional heatstroke" is very harmful to summer health and physical and mental well-being, especially for the elderly and frail. Emotional disturbances can cause them myocardial ischemia, arrhythmia, high blood pressure, and even trigger sudden cardiac death. To prevent "emotional heatstroke," consider eating potatoes.

Potatoes contain vitamin C and are high in calories. People suffering from "emotional heatstroke" are most susceptible to negative emotions like depression, discouragement, and anxiety. The minerals and nutrients in potatoes can act on the body to improve mental state.

Potato Pie