Health knowledge

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fingernails are considered an external manifestation of the body's internal organs and blood, directly connected to the body's meridians. They can fully reflect physiological and pathological changes. Observing the shape, size, and color of fingernails can reflect a person's basic health status and even reveal potential health crises. Furthermore, changes in the luster, texture, and spots of fingernails can indicate subtle health problems. Therefore, learning to observe fingernails is a simple method of self-testing one's health.

What diseases can be detected by the lunula (half-moon shape) on fingernails? A large lunula at the base of the nail indicates rapid blood circulation. A small lunula indicates poor blood circulation; in cases of severe anemia, the lunula may disappear completely.

Diagnosing diseases by examining fingernails (Image source: File photo)

1. The shine of the nails

Nail color refers to the shine and color of the nails. Healthy nails have a certain shine and are very even, like a smooth piece of glass, and should be a beautiful pink. Once the nail color changes, it indicates that there is a problem in some part of the body, which should be taken seriously.

The nail polish becomes brighter:

There are two types of nail shine. One is that only patches or stripes of the nail become shiny, rather than the entire nail. This is often associated with pleurisy or ascites. The other is that the entire nail becomes extremely shiny, as if it has been coated with oil, and the nail becomes thinner. This is often seen in patients with hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or acute infectious diseases.

Uneven gloss:

Uneven nail shine can occur on different nails or in different parts of the same nail. For example, if every nail has a shiny tip but a rough, dull base, it may indicate chronic bronchitis or cholecystitis. If only some nails have uneven shine, it suggests some chronic damage or inflammation in the body.

Loss of luster:

If the entire nail is like frosted glass, completely lacking any luster, it indicates the presence of certain chronic wasting diseases in the body, such as tuberculosis. This condition can also occur in patients with severe wasting diseases, such as liver abscess, lung abscess, or long-term chronic bleeding.

2. The shape of the nails

Lily-shaped: The nails are relatively long, with a noticeable bulge in the middle and inward curves around the edges, resembling a lily petal. This type of nail is more common in women. This nail shape is considered the most beautiful, but people with this nail shape are often more prone to illness from childhood, especially digestive system problems, and are also more susceptible to blood disorders.

Fan-shaped: This type of nail is narrow at the bottom and wide at the top, with an arc-shaped tip. People with fan-shaped nails are mostly naturally strong, with excellent physical condition and high endurance from a young age. However, they are prone to neglecting their health. In adulthood or old age, they are more susceptible to duodenal ulcers, cholecystitis, and even liver disease.

Round: Round nails indicate a person who appears physically robust and rarely gets sick. These individuals are often slow to react to illness and rarely notice abnormalities in their bodies. Therefore, when they do fall ill, it is often quite severe. They are most prone to ulcer bleeding, pancreatitis, heart dysfunction, and even cancer.

3. Nail texture

Nail concavity refers to the appearance of horizontal or vertical lines, spots, etc., on the nails. Traditional Chinese medicine points out that these changes in the nails are closely related to pathological changes such as decreased function of the body's organs and tissues, and damage or atrophy of tissue structures.

Vertical stripes:

The appearance of vertical ridges on the nail surface, often indicating overwork or mental strain, is a common sign. These ridges become more pronounced when sleep is insufficient. If the ridges persist, it may indicate a chronic illness affecting internal organs. Without proper care, the nails may become uneven and even crack as the condition progresses.

Horizontal stripes:

Horizontal ridges on fingernails serve as a record of existing medical conditions. In other words, the appearance of horizontal ridges on fingernails indicates the presence of some underlying health issue. Generally, the ridges initially appear at the base of the nail and gradually move upwards as the nail grows, suggesting that the onset of the disease is approaching.

spot:

A few white spots on the nails usually indicate calcium or silicon deficiency or parasitic infection; a large number of white spots may be a sign of neurasthenia; fine yellow spots on the nails may indicate a digestive system disease; and black spots on the nails should be taken seriously, as they may simply indicate overwork or malnutrition in mild cases, but could be a precursor to stomach prolapse, stomach cancer, or uterine cancer in severe cases.

TIPS: Little Sun - Nail Health Ring

The lunula, or white crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail, is called the nail half-moon or the "health ring." Ideally, the lunula should occupy about one-fifth of the entire nail ; too large, too small, or barely visible are not considered normal. People with excessively large lunulae are prone to high blood pressure and stroke; while those with very small lunulae indicate low blood pressure. People whose lunulae are completely invisible often have symptoms of anemia or neurasthenia.

Meanwhile, the ideal color for the lunula (half-moon nail) is milky white. A bluish tinge suggests respiratory problems.

Vertical ridges on nails: The nail surface is not smooth, and vertical lines appear. This usually occurs after overwork or excessive mental exertion ; these ridges become more prominent when sleep is insufficient. If the ridges persist, it may indicate a chronic disease of internal organs. Without proper care, the nails will become uneven and may even crack as the condition progresses.

Horizontal ridges on fingernails: Horizontal ridges on fingernails are a record of existing pathological changes. In other words, when horizontal ridges appear on the fingernails, some disease has already occurred in the body. Generally speaking, the horizontal ridges are initially only at the bottom of the nail, and gradually move upwards as the nail grows, indicating that the onset of the disease is getting closer.

Spots on nails: A few white spots on the nails usually indicate calcium or silicon deficiency or parasitic infection ; a large number of white spots may be a sign of neurasthenia ; fine yellow spots on the nails may indicate a digestive system disease ; if black spots appear on the nails, be careful, as they may simply indicate overwork or malnutrition, or in severe cases, may be a precursor to stomach prolapse, stomach cancer, or uterine cancer.

Nail concavity refers to the appearance of horizontal or vertical lines, spots, etc., on the nails. Traditional Chinese medicine points out that these changes in the nails are closely related to pathological changes such as decreased function of the body's organs and tissues, and damage or atrophy of tissue structures.

Half-moon

The lunula, or white crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail, is called the nail half-moon or the "health ring." Ideally, the lunula should occupy about one-fifth of the entire nail ; too large, too small, or barely visible are not considered normal. People with very large lunulae are prone to high blood pressure and stroke, while those with very small lunulae indicate low blood pressure. People whose lunulae are completely invisible often have symptoms of anemia or neurasthenia.

Meanwhile, the ideal color for the lunula (half-moon nail) is milky white. A bluish tinge suggests respiratory problems and a predisposition to cardiovascular disease ; a bluish tinge indicates poor blood circulation ; and a reddish tinge suggests heart failure.

( I ) What is the lunula? A white, arc-shaped mark appearing at the lower fifth of the nail is called the lunula, also known as the "little sun."The lunula is the boundary of Yin and Yang meridians and represents the body's essence and energy, hence it is also called the "health ring."The development of the lunula is affected by nutrition, environment, and physical condition. When digestion and absorption are poor for a prolonged period, the lunula will become blurred, reduced, or even disappear. The condition of the lunula reflects information about the body's health. ( II ) The function of the lunula. Traditional Chinese medicine says: Qi that is not consumed returns to the liver as blood; blood that is not consumed returns to the kidneys as essence; essence that is not consumed returns to the bones as marrow.This is the origin of essence and marrow. Essence and marrow are also the location of primordial Qi. Since the lunula reflects the state of essence and Qi, its importance is evident. The functions of primordial Qi: 1. Nourishing the whole body's five internal organs. 2. Promoting the normal circulation of Qi and blood in the five internal organs. 3. Resisting external pathogens ( immune function ) . 4. A substance for longevity and anti-aging. 5. Genetic material.Traditional Chinese medicine has a saying: "Sufficient essence leads to a strong body, weak essence leads to illness, depleted essence leads to aging, and exhausted essence leads to death.This illustrates the importance of essence and vital energy. In daily life, timely restoration of essence, energy, and spirit, and proper body maintenance, are beneficial to our health. When energy is insufficient, the most important supplement is protein.Traditional Chinese medicine says, " When essence is insufficient, replenish it with flavor. " This means supplementing with protein. High-quality protein is best when it is neutral, such as dairy products, eggs, beans, fish, black foods ( black foods nourish the kidneys ) , seeds, and embryonic foods. After persisting for a month, you can see the appearance of lunulae (half-moons on the palms), indicating that your energy has been restored to a certain extent.

Let's take a look at the top ten signs of sub-health. You might want to check if you fit the description and adjust your diet and lifestyle accordingly.

1. Go to bed after midnight . Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the importance of "midnight naps," meaning that falling asleep before 11 PM is most beneficial for nourishing Yin and giving the body a "full recharge" at night. The latest you should go to bed is 11:30 PM ; otherwise, you'll be more awake and find it harder to fall asleep.

2. White spots on fingernails. Traditional Chinese medicine says that nails are the surplus of blood. White spots on fingernails indicate that the body's internal organs are not functioning properly, especially digestion and absorption, and that the body is not getting enough nutrition. It is important to pay attention to a balanced diet.

3. Vertical ridges on the nails. Vertical ridges on the nails suggest that the body is in a state of fatigue, and you may not be in a good mental state recently. In any case, you should pay attention to relaxing and adjusting your sleep schedule.

4. Poor complexion and age spots. Women with poor complexion and age spots should mainly look for the causes in terms of emotions and endocrine system. People who are under a lot of stress, mental tension, and menstrual disorders are prone to having a yellowish and dull complexion, or age spots.

5. Sudden weight loss. If you lose more than 20 pounds in six months without intentionally dieting , you should definitely see a doctor to check for any serious medical conditions. If it's not due to illness, it may be related to stress or emotions.

6. Craving spicy food. When people are stressed or tired, their tastes often become stronger, or they may feel a lack of appetite and crave spicy food. Excessive consumption is not only bad for the spleen and stomach, but these foods also have a dispersing effect, easily depleting energy, leading to fatigue and a weakened immune system.

7. Eating very little staple food. It's a misconception to avoid or rarely eat staple foods in order to lose weight . Even for diabetics, the recommended daily intake of staple foods is generally no less than 6 liang (300 grams), and for healthy individuals, it should not be less than this standard.

8. Always feeling dry mouth. A persistent feeling of dry mouth may be a sign of yin deficiency or fluid depletion. Insufficient yin fluid, fluid depletion, blood stasis, and phlegm obstruction can all cause dry mouth and tongue. In addition, mental stress and anxiety can also cause dry mouth.

9. Always feeling tired. Fatigue is one of the most typical manifestations of sub-health. Many diseases also present with unexplained fatigue as a major symptom, so it should be taken seriously. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, people with qi deficiency, yin deficiency, or blood deficiency are prone to fatigue.

10. Frequently having cold hands and feet indicates poor peripheral circulation, often accompanied by Yang deficiency, Qi stagnation, and blood stasis. Pay attention to keeping warm, rub your hands and feet frequently, and soak your feet in warm water at night.

1. Food: Apples. Make sure to eat an apple every day. Studies have found that the vitamin C in apples can inhibit the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body, disrupt the activity of certain enzymes produced during the proliferation of cancer cells, and may even transform existing cancer cells into normal cells.

2. Cancer-preventing food: Corn. Make sure to eat one ear of corn every day. Corn not only helps prevent and treat hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and urinary stones, but it also has anti-cancer properties. According to the American medical community, corn contains a large amount of amino acids, which have a significant effect on inhibiting cancer. In addition, the glutathione in corn, with the participation of selenium, generates glutathione peroxidase, which can also deactivate chemical carcinogens.

3. Cancer-preventing food : Sour plums should be eaten regularly. Sour plums can enhance the phagocytic ability of white blood cells, improve the body's immune function, and assist in the treatment of penile cancer and cervical cancer.

4. Cancer-preventing foods: Shiitake mushrooms are a good choice. Consuming mushrooms at least twice a week is beneficial as they are a healthy food with anti-cancer properties, with shiitake mushrooms being particularly prominent. Shiitake polysaccharides enhance cellular and humoral immunity, having a similar effect to replenishing qi (vital energy). Eating more shiitake mushrooms can reduce the risk of colds and cancer . Hericium erinaceus (monkey head mushroom), processed into tablets by the Chinese pharmaceutical community, is used to prevent and treat stomach and esophageal cancer, with an effectiveness rate of 69.3% and a significant efficacy rate of 15% .

5. Cancer-preventing foods: Onions. Aim to eat onions at least three times a week. Animal studies have shown that vegetables like garlic and scallions can prevent cancers of the colon, stomach, lungs, and liver. The sulfides they contain can activate the body 's immune function and interfere with the spread of cancer cells, thus helping to fight cancer.

6. Cancer-preventing food: Beef. Aim to eat beef at least three times a week. A research team led by microbiologist Bariza at the University of Wisconsin has found a component in beef that can inhibit the activity of carcinogens, thus playing a role in cancer prevention. It is also hoped that new anti-cancer drugs can be extracted from beef.

7. Cancer-preventing food: Make sure to eat ribbonfish at least once a week. Modern medical research has confirmed that the silvery, powdery scales of ribbonfish contain a large amount of protein, inorganic salts, and oils. They are the main raw material for synthesizing the anti-cancer drug hexathioguanine, and are also an effective drug for treating acute leukemia and other cancers.

8. Cancer-preventing foods: Kelp and nori. Make sure to eat kelp or nori soup at least once a day. Modern medical research has confirmed that seaweed such as kelp, nori, and wakame have certain anti-cancer effects. Studies of seaweed have found that the blood of cancer patients is often acidic, while kelp, with its high calcium content, can regulate and balance the blood's pH, thus playing a role in cancer prevention. At the same time, the fiber it contains is not easily digested, increasing stool volume and promoting the excretion of certain carcinogens from the intestines, which helps the body maintain cancer prevention and health.

9. Cancer-preventing food: Soybeans. Make sure to have a bowl of soybean porridge for breakfast every day, as soybeans contain at least 5 kinds of anti-cancer substances.

10. Cancer-preventing food: Tea. Develop a daily tea-drinking habit. Reports indicate that mixing tea leaves into the feed of mice with cancer cells resulted in a reduction or suppression of cancer cells after three weeks. Other reports suggest that a substance in tea can inhibit cancer cells throughout the body via blood circulation.

First: Traditional Chinese medicine is effective, but quack doctors mislead people.

Commentary: Traditional Chinese medicine can also treat cancer, but you should go to a regular hospital for treatment. Patients often come to me with flyers distributed outside hospitals asking if the anti-cancer drugs advertised there are effective. But think about it: if they were effective, they'd be selling them inside the hospital; why would they be distributing flyers outside?

Second: Grind fresh carrots into juice and drink a cup every other day.

Commentary: Carrots have therapeutic effects, but they are not medicine. Carrots contain various vitamins, which help increase the resistance of cancer patients. However, they are not medicine and cannot be expected to cure all diseases . Drinking a cup every other day is appropriate; drinking too much can cause yellow pigment deposition.

Three: Eat carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, burdock, soybean sprouts, tofu, and make fish soup.

Commentary: You can eat any type of nutrient; there's no need to be fixated on any particular one. These foods are all rich in vitamins and fiber, primarily serving a health-promoting purpose. However, you don't need to limit yourself to these specific foods; other similar foods are also beneficial to your health.

Fourth: Do not drink old soup.

Commentary: Soup is nourishing, but nitrites are harmful. Old broth tastes delicious, but due to repeated processing, it contains the carcinogen nitrite, so it should be consumed sparingly. In daily life, it's also important to avoid nitrite intake, such as not eating leftovers or drinking hot pot broth that has been boiling for too long.

Fifth: Exercise more, such as playing golf or hiking.

Commentary: Moderate exercise is most important, and nature is even more beneficial. Cancer patients should exercise more, but not strenuously. It's best to take walks in quiet, less crowded places like parks or mountains, which allows them to inhale more oxygen and negative ions from the air and also improves their mood.

Sixth: Maintain peace of mind and body . Do not be concerned about anything, do not get angry, do not be sad, do not be resentful, do not be deluded, do not complain. When you feel lazy, be lazy. Chat with friends, think about happy things, read some magazines featuring beautiful women to distract yourself. Do not keep thinking about your illness.

Commentary: Be happy every day, be healthy every day. The human body has its own resistance. When you are happy, your body will work at full capacity to actively defend itself; when you are downcast, your body lacks motivation, and your immunity will decline.

Seven: Eat more seaweed and wild rice products. Reishi mushroom medicines sold in the market each have some effects.

Commentary: Food plus medication to boost immunity. The foods listed are all touted as " anti-cancer " foods, but ultimately they are just foods. They have health benefits, but cannot replace medication; they still need to be used in conjunction with a doctor's treatment.

8. Absolutely avoid eating goose, duck, shrimp, crab, bird's nest, alcohol, and spicy foods.

Commentary: Don't be absolute, be relative. There's nothing absolutely forbidden to eat; everything you eat is nutritious. However, excessive protein intake can burden the liver and kidneys. These foods are okay to eat, but in moderation.

Summarize:

As the saying goes, "experience makes one a doctor," and cancer patients often have their own unique anti-cancer remedies. Experts believe that sharing these disease prevention and treatment experiences, like a " talkative monk ," can boost one's own confidence in treatment and serve as a good reminder and encouragement to others. (Source: Health Times)

I.    Traditional Chinese Medicine Health Preservation: Regulating Endocrine System

The most prominent problem for women with menopausal syndrome is their inability to control and regulate their emotions despite knowing they have the condition. When angry or depressed, the body secretes excessive toxic substances, harming the body and worsening the illness. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that menopausal syndrome is closely related to the heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys . The TCM approach to menopausal syndrome emphasizes holistic regulation to achieve harmony of body and mind. Treatment is based on the cause and syndrome differentiation: 1. Yin deficiency and liver hyperactivity type: Symptoms include dizziness, headache, dryness, irritability, insomnia, dry mouth, hot hands and feet, tinnitus, palpitations, hot flashes and sweating, red tongue with little or no coating, thin and dry pulse, and a thready and rapid pulse or a wiry and thready pulse. Some people may also experience elevated blood pressure. Ingredients: 15g Ligustrum lucidum, 10g Rehmannia glutinosa , 10g Cornus officinalis, 15g Rubus idaeus, 10g Angelica sinensis , 10g Paeonia lactiflora , 10g Chrysanthemum morifolium , 10g Morus alba, 15g Lycium barbarum , 10g Scutellaria baicalensis , 15g Lilium brownii , 10g Albizia julibrissin . 2. For spleen and kidney deficiency type : dizziness, lower back pain, cold limbs, edema, frequent urination or incontinence, bland taste, loose stools, poor appetite, fatigue, pale tongue with white coating, and deep, thready or deep, slow pulse. Ingredients: Dioscorea opposita 20g , Cuscuta chinensis 15g , Epimedium brevicornu 15g , Curculigo orchioides 5g , Dipsacus asper 12g , Rubus idaeus 15g , Rehmannia glutinosa 10g , Atractylodes macrocephala 10g , Poria cocos 15g , Codonopsis pilosula 10g , Glycyrrhiza uralensis 6g . 3. Modifications: For heavy or continuous bleeding, add Astragalus membranaceus, palm charcoal, donkey-hide gelatin, Ailanthus altissima bark, and roasted oyster shell; for high blood pressure, add Achyranthes bidentata and Uncaria rhynchophylla; for excessive sweating, add raw oyster shell and wheat bran; for severe insomnia, add Polygonum multiflorum and raw fossilized teeth. The above prescription can be decocted in water and taken once daily, divided into morning and evening doses. Clinical observation shows that the above Chinese medicine treatment can significantly alleviate menopausal symptoms and also has a certain effect on the treatment and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis. II . Dietary Care to Replenish Energy: Menopausal symptoms can deplete a woman's vital energy and energy reserves. Therefore, proper nutrition can alleviate these symptoms to some extent. 1. The diet should be low in salt, light, and with a balanced mix of meat and vegetables. 2. Avoid overeating at dinner. The recommended proportions for the three meals are 35% for breakfast , 35% for lunch , and 30% for dinner . Avoid overeating. Avoid spicy, dry, and stimulating foods. 3. Drink about one tablespoon of honey water daily to regulate the body. Honey contains various nutrients and can lubricate the intestines. Appropriate amounts of honey water can reduce the intake of other high-calorie foods and have the effects of " moistening, soothing, and detoxifying . " 4. Weight gain is caused by metabolic disorders. Therefore, the diet should include more foods rich in protein, calcium, and various vitamins, and less sugary foods. Milk and beans not only contain calcium and protein needed during menopause, but also various essential trace elements, and should be consumed regularly. A diet primarily consisting of fresh vegetables, supplemented with chicken, fish, and rabbit meat, is recommended. 5. For men experiencing menopause symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, headaches, memory loss, fatigue, and poor cardiovascular function, dietary considerations should include foods that can alleviate symptoms like headaches, dizziness, weakness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. Examples include dates, walnuts, oats, yams, and longan. Longan and date porridge, and stewed turtle with goji berries, can calm the mind and enhance memory. 6. Dietary therapy for menopausal syndrome also includes lamb, beef, and shrimp, which strengthen bones and replenish essence and blood. For men experiencing sexual dysfunction and decreased libido, consuming more of these foods can effectively improve and enhance sexual function. III . Psychological Treatment and Emotional Well-being: Many women believe that the arrival of menopause signifies impending aging. They fear aging, feel disheartened, experience anxiety, find life uninteresting, are constantly worried, feel tired but unable to sleep, and feel weak and heavy-handed upon waking. At this time, appropriate psychological treatment is necessary. The general principle of psychological treatment for menopausal syndrome is to face it with a positive attitude. First, middle-aged individuals should have a correct understanding of menopause, such as its causes and symptoms, and learn general medical knowledge about menopause to eliminate misunderstandings about the physiological changes and remove psychological biases, so that they don't panic or feel caught off guard when menopause arrives. Then, face reality. Once you understand that this is a normal physiological process that everyone goes through, you can rebuild your confidence and face it with an optimistic attitude. When loneliness arises, engage in beneficial activities with family ( such as hiking or picnics ) ; when negative emotions persist, chat with colleagues or friends, or play chess; when facing extreme fatigue or insomnia, don't panic or become anxious, but gradually calm yourself down and maintain a calm and healthy mindset. It's also important to cultivate a harmonious family atmosphere. Husbands should understand their wives' psychological characteristics during menopause. Wives should also be empathetic to their husbands' feelings and emotions during this period, building strong parent-child and spousal relationships, offering mutual help and support. Maintain an open mind, a cheerful mood, and try to keep your emotions stable. After about a year of psychological adjustment, you can establish a new psychological balance. As the saying goes, older women should learn to cultivate their character. When feeling irritable, try reading, gardening, listening to music, or doing things you enjoy that soothe your temperament. This is beneficial for recovery from menopausal syndrome and also a good way to maintain your charm. IV . Exercise for Health and Improved Physical Fitness Many menopausal women experience weight gain. Changes in metabolism and estrogen levels can cause women to gain weight, accumulating fat in the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. In severe cases, it can even lead to joint pain, such as in the knees. Therefore, menopausal women should exercise scientifically, reasonably, and with moderation. They should start from their own physical condition, avoiding rushing for quick results and blindly trying to " lose weight , " otherwise they will not only fail to achieve their goals but also harm their health. Before exercising, it is best to have a comprehensive physical examination and choose different exercise programs based on their physical condition. For women with good physical fitness who exercise regularly, they can choose some higher-intensity sports, such as running, skipping rope, and fast-paced aerobics; those with poor physical fitness who rarely exercise should choose lower-intensity exercises such as Tai Chi and walking. The choice of exercise program can also be combined with one's living and working environment. For example, women who often work at a desk in an office should pay special attention to moving around during work breaks, doing some head-raising and chest-expanding exercises to relax muscles and joints. If possible, it is best to exercise outdoors. In addition, women who engage in heavy physical labor for extended periods, or suffer from constipation and chronic cough, should pay attention to strengthening their pelvic floor muscles. Performing daily anal sphincter contractions can strengthen the support of the pelvic floor tissues, preventing muscle and ligament laxity due to declining estrogen levels, which can lead to reproductive organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. In short, menopausal women should follow a gradual approach to physical exercise, choosing appropriate exercises based on their individual circumstances and adhering to them long-term to maintain physical and mental health.
   
   
    
   
    
   

  







  
  
  

  
   
   

Eight vegetables for autumn detoxification and health maintenance that will make you more beautiful the more you eat.

More and more research>Mushrooms​​

Benefits: Improves the body's detoxification ability and lowers cholesterol.

Shiitake mushrooms are rich in protein and various essential trace elements. They are also a health food that helps prevent colds, lower cholesterol, prevent cirrhosis, and has anti-cancer properties. Modern medical research suggests that shiitake mushrooms contain polysaccharides that can improve the body's immunity and detoxification abilities, enhancing the body's anti-cancer capabilities. Furthermore, shiitake mushrooms can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent arteriosclerosis, strengthen the heart and liver, and promote the excretion of waste products, making them an excellent edible fungus for detoxification and overall health. Shiitake mushrooms also have the effects of invigorating qi and spleen, detoxifying, and moisturizing dryness. They contain 18 kinds of amino acids, including 7 of the 8 essential amino acids for the human body . They also contain more than 30 kinds of enzymes, as well as glucose, vitamin A , vitamin B1 , vitamin B2 , nicotinic acid, iron, and other components. Additionally, shiitake mushrooms are beneficial for detoxification and fading acne scars.

Bitter melon ( Balsam pear )

Efficacy: Nourishes Yin, reduces internal heat, clears toxins, and relieves summer heat.

Although bitter melon is bitter, it has a cooling effect when eaten, making it refreshing and not greasy. It's especially pleasant to eat in summer, offering a cooling and nourishing effect, detoxifying and beautifying the skin. Bitter melon can be steeped into a cooling tea, which can instantly relieve summer heat and thirst. In some regions, bitter melon is cut open, lightly salted to reduce bitterness, and eaten as a vegetable ; others slice it into rings and stew it with minced meat, garlic, and fermented black beans to make a delicious dish.

Kelp​​

Benefits: Lowers cholesterol, eliminates radioactive substances

Kelp contains a substance called sulfated polysaccharide, which can remove cholesterol attached to blood vessel walls, maintaining normal cholesterol levels. The alginic acid in kelp, due to its high water content, can form a gel-like substance in the intestines, helping to eliminate toxins, preventing the body from absorbing heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, and removing radioactive elements. It also helps treat arteriosclerosis and can prevent constipation and colon cancer. Kelp also contains a large amount of iodine, which can stimulate the pituitary gland, lowering estrogen levels in women , restoring normal ovarian function, and eliminating the risk of breast hyperplasia.

Black fungus ( Agaric )

Efficacy: Eliminates heat toxins in the blood

Because it grows in damp, shady environments, black fungus is believed in Traditional Chinese Medicine to have the effects of replenishing qi and blood, cooling the blood, and moisturizing, thus eliminating heat toxins in the blood. The plant colloids in black fungus have strong adsorption capacity, which can remove impurities remaining in the human digestive system, thus cleansing the stomach and intestines. Black fungus has a dissolving effect on indigestible substances such as grain husks, wood chips, sand, and metal shavings, and also has a dissolving function for gallstones and kidney stones. Black fungus can also reduce blood clots and prevent thrombosis.

Pumpkins​​

Efficacy: Removes heavy metals and pesticides from the body

Eating pumpkin can effectively prevent and treat hypertension, gallstones, diabetes, and other liver and kidney diseases, and help patients with weakened liver and kidney function improve cell regeneration. The pectin in pumpkin can slow down the absorption of sugar and lipids in the intestines, and can also remove heavy metals and some pesticides from the body, thus having anti-cancer and detoxifying effects . Pumpkin is also rich in cobalt, an essential trace element for the synthesis of insulin. Furthermore, pumpkin can eliminate the mutagenic effects of the carcinogen nitrosamine.

Cauliflower ( Roccoli )

Benefits: Cleanses blood vessels

Cauliflower is one of the foods richest in flavonoids. Besides preventing infection, it's also an excellent blood vessel cleanser, preventing cholesterol oxidation, preventing platelet aggregation, and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It also strengthens blood vessel walls and is beneficial for obesity, weakened vision, and edema. Regular consumption of cauliflower can enhance liver detoxification, prevent colds and scurvy, and long-term consumption may reduce the incidence of cancers such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and stomach cancer.

Carrots​​

Efficacy: Reduces mercury concentration in the body

Carrots are an effective detoxifying food. After binding with mercury ions in the body, they can effectively reduce the concentration of mercury ions in the blood and accelerate the excretion of mercury ions. The potassium succinate in carrots helps prevent arteriosclerosis and lower cholesterol. The carotene in carrots can eliminate free radicals that cause aging, and the B vitamins and vitamin C they contain also have skin-moisturizing and anti-aging effects. Women who eat carrots may also have a lower incidence of ovarian cancer.

Spinach​​

Efficacy: Clears heat toxins from the stomach and intestines.

Spinach can clear heat toxins from the intestines and stomach, prevent constipation, and give you a radiant complexion. Spinach leaves contain an insulin-like substance that helps stabilize blood sugar. The rich vitamin content of spinach can prevent vitamin deficiency diseases such as angular cheilitis and night blindness. Spinach also contains a large number of antioxidants, which have anti-aging and cell-proliferation-promoting effects, activating brain function, enhancing vitality, and preventing brain aging.

In many places, there are sayings like " biting into spring " and " eating autumn . " Now, with late autumn approaching, what should we eat most ? Here's an introduction to the " top foods of various kinds " on the autumn food list .

First dish: Lotus root

Reason for inclusion: There is a folk saying that " the lotus is a treasure from head to toe, and the autumn lotus root is the most nourishing . "

Autumn is the season for fresh lotus root. The weather is dry at this time, and eating lotus root can nourish yin, clear heat, moisten dryness, quench thirst, and calm the mind. At the same time, lotus root is warm in nature and has the function of constricting blood vessels; eating more can nourish the lungs and blood. Lotus root has undoubtedly become a staple vegetable this season .

In addition to containing a large amount of carbohydrates, fresh lotus root is also rich in protein, various vitamins and minerals, as well as dietary fiber, which is very beneficial for treating constipation and promoting the excretion of harmful substances.

Best way to eat: Seven-hole lotus root has a higher starch content and less water, making it glutinous but not crisp, and is suitable for making soup ; nine-hole lotus root has a higher water content, making it crisp, tender, and juicy, and is best for cold dishes or stir-fries.

Best pairings: Black and white fungus. Pairing with white fungus can nourish lung yin, while pairing with black fungus can nourish kidney yin.

First Nut: Peanut

Reason for inclusion: Autumn is a season of abundant harvests, and among them, peanuts, known as the " longevity fruit ," stand out the most. " Eating peanuts regularly is beneficial . " Peanut kernels contain about 26% protein , twice that of wheat, and are easily absorbed and utilized by the body ; they also contain 40% fat, of which over 80% is unsaturated fatty acids . The nutritional value of peanuts is higher than that of grains and comparable to some animal-based foods such as eggs, milk, and meat.

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that peanuts are neutral in nature, sweet in taste, and enter the spleen and lung meridians. They can invigorate the spleen and stomach, moisten the lungs and resolve phlegm, nourish and regulate qi, and clear the throat and stop coughing. They are mainly used to treat malnutrition, poor appetite and weakness, dry cough with little phlegm, hemoptysis, purpura, insufficient lactation in postpartum women, and constipation.

Best way to eat: Fresh peanuts are best eaten boiled in their shells. Boiled peanuts are not only easier to digest and absorb, but also allow you to fully utilize the medicinal and health benefits of the shell and inner red skin. The red skin of peanuts can inhibit fibrinolysis, promote platelet regeneration, and strengthen the contractile function of capillaries, thus treating thrombocytopenia and preventing hemorrhagic diseases ; peanut shells have the effect of lowering blood pressure and regulating cholesterol. Ancient texts believe that peanuts replenish qi and nourish the lungs when boiled in salt water.

Best pairing: Red dates. Pairing with red dates can nourish the spleen and blood, and stop bleeding. It has a certain therapeutic effect on spleen deficiency and blood deficiency, anemia, and is especially beneficial for women .

First supplement: Yam

Reason for inclusion: Every season calls for nourishing the body, but the methods differ. Spring requires gentle nourishment, summer requires mild nourishment, and autumn requires moisturizing nourishment. The best food for nourishing the body in autumn is yam, which is not only known as " food of the immortals " but also has the effects of " food as medicine " .

Yam contains amylase, polyphenol oxidase and other substances, which are beneficial to the digestion and absorption of the spleen and stomach ; yam contains a large amount of mucoprotein, vitamins and trace elements, which can effectively prevent the deposition of blood lipids on the blood vessel walls, prevent cardiovascular diseases and have the effect of prolonging life ; Traditional Chinese medicine also believes that eating yam in autumn has the effects of strengthening the spleen and stomach, nourishing the kidneys and replenishing essence, and benefiting the lungs and relieving cough.

Best ways to eat it: Steamed, in soup, or stir-fried. Steaming minimizes nutrient loss.

Best pairing: Goji berries. If you don't eat yam alone, you can cook it with goji berries to make goji berry and yam porridge, which will enhance its nourishing effects.

First drink: Yellow wine

Reason for inclusion: " When chrysanthemums bloom, drink yellow wine . " Yellow wine is a national specialty of China and one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in the world. It is a beverage containing a relatively complete range of essential amino acids, including 18 kinds, which is rare among nutritional wines worldwide. Yellow wine also contains a high level of functional oligosaccharides, which can improve immunity and disease resistance, in a way that wine and beer cannot match.

Yellow rice wine has a profound functional foundation. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that yellow rice wine is warm in nature and has a sweet and bitter taste. It has therapeutic effects such as clearing the meridians, promoting blood circulation, warming the spleen and stomach, moisturizing the skin, and dispelling dampness.

Best way to drink: Warm rice wine is recommended to warm the stomach and dispel cold. The traditional way to drink rice wine is to heat it in hot water or over a fire, ideally at 35 ℃ -45 ℃ . During the heating process, trace amounts of organic compounds in the rice wine that are not beneficial to health will evaporate as the temperature rises, reducing any potential harm to the body.

Best pairing: Dried plum. Autumn emphasizes a diet focused on " contraction , " and pairing with dried plum perfectly aligns with this concept, offering benefits such as nourishing yin , promoting fluid production, moisturizing the lungs , and protecting the liver.

First Meat: Cuttlefish

Reason for inclusion: Regarding meat consumption, there's a saying that " four-legged animals are not as good as two-legged ones, and two-legged ones are not as good as legless ones . " Cuttlefish is delicious and nutritious, containing 13 grams of protein and only 0.7 grams of fat per 100 grams of meat. It also contains carbohydrates, vitamins A and B , and essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron, making it a high-protein, low-fat, and nourishing food. Eating cuttlefish in autumn is especially beneficial for women .

Cuttlefish has the effects of nourishing blood and kidneys, strengthening the stomach and regulating qi. Eating cuttlefish in autumn can nourish yin and promote body fluid production.

Best ways to eat it: braised, stir-fried, simmered, stewed, cold-dressed, or used in soups. However, to prevent dryness in autumn, squid soup is more suitable.

Best pairing: Tofu, which is also a food that nourishes yin and promotes the production of body fluids, can complement each other's protein content when eaten together.

First fruit: Pear

Reason for inclusion: Pears are tender and juicy, containing 85% water, with a sweet and sour taste. They are rich in vitamins and trace elements such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and iodine, and are known as " natural mineral water " . They have been revered as the " king of fruits " since ancient times .

Autumn air is dry and lacks moisture. Eating a certain amount of pears every day can relieve autumn dryness and promote the production of body fluids and moisturize the lungs.

Different types of pears have different levels of coldness. For example, the Tianjin duck pear, fragrant pear, and tribute pear that we often eat are about the same in terms of coldness, while the rough-skinned sand pear and the imported beer pear are more cold in terms of coldness.

Best way to eat pears: Different ways of eating pears can produce different effects; raw pears and cooked pears have different effects. Eating raw pears can significantly relieve symptoms such as dry, itchy, and sore throat, hoarseness, constipation, and dark urine in patients with upper respiratory tract infections. Cooking or steaming pears, such as steamed pears with rock sugar, can nourish yin and moisten the lungs, relieve cough and eliminate phlegm, and has preventive and therapeutic effects on gout, rheumatism, and arthritis. It is also more effective in treating lung heat cough and sore throat.

Best pairing: Honey. The world-famous pear syrup candy is made by simmering pears and honey, and it has a significant effect on patients suffering from chronic cough due to lung heat.

First type of porridge: Lily porridge

Reason for inclusion: Autumn is a dry season, and the lack of moisture in the air often leads to dry mouth and nose, constant thirst, dry skin, and even dry cough. Lily bulbs have the effects of moisturizing the lungs, relieving cough, and calming the mind, making them a top choice for autumn consumption.

Lily bulbs have a sweet and slightly bitter taste and are neutral in nature. They are rich in nutrients, including protein, vitamins, carotene, and some special active ingredients such as starch, polysaccharides, pectin, and various alkaloids, which have certain therapeutic effects on inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells.

Best way to eat lilies: cook them in porridge. There are many ways to eat lilies. They can be eaten as dishes, such as stir-fried lilies with celery or stir-fried lilies with beef, which are all delicious . They can also be cooked into porridge, such as lily porridge made with glutinous rice and a little rock sugar, which is not only delicious but also calming and helps with sleep . Lilies can also be cooked with lotus seeds and red dates into a soup, which is nourishing and calming.

Best pairing: Almonds. Almonds have the effects of moisturizing the lungs, relieving cough, calming the mind, and soothing the nerves. When cooked into porridge with lily bulbs, it is suitable for patients who are weak after illness or have a dry cough.