As the cold winter breeze blows, our taste buds and hearts seem to be craving a touch of sweet comfort. During this season, when you walk into any market, you will be attracted by the bright, fresh aroma of oranges. Oranges are not only a representative fruit of winter, but also a heart-warming product in the hearts of many people. But then the question arises: are these delicious oranges friends or enemies to our spleen and stomach?
Tangerine: a natural treasure trove of vitamin C to protect your health
Oranges, as a common fruit in winter, are not only delicious, but also a health food with high nutritional value. Its biggest feature is that it is rich in vitamin C, a nutrient that is essential for human health. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that effectively neutralizes free radicals in the body, slows down the aging process of cells, and boosts immunity. This is especially important in a climate that changes frequently during the winter months, as it helps us fight off colds and other seasonal illnesses.
In addition to vitamin C, tangerines are also rich in fiber. Fiber not only promotes intestinal peristalsis and helps prevent constipation, but also effectively controls blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial for people with abnormal glucose metabolism. In addition, fiber intake has also been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Therefore, tangerines are not only a delicious fruit, but also a high-quality choice for maintaining health.
The antioxidants in oranges, such as flavonoids, are also extremely beneficial for cardiovascular health. They help reduce the risk of increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries and can improve vascular function. This means that regular consumption of oranges can help maintain heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease.
Winter Spleen and Stomach Conditioning: The Key is Understanding and Adaptation
In winter, the climate is cold, which has a special effect on our spleen and stomach. In TCM theory, the spleen and stomach are regarded as the "acquired roots" and are the center of the body's energy transformation and supply. Cold weather can easily lead to the weakening of the spleen and stomach function, which in turn affects the digestion and absorption of food.
Cold climate and spleen and stomach function
In winter, the drop in temperature slows down the body's metabolism. At this time, the spleen and stomach need more energy to maintain normal digestive function. But because of the cold, the body tends to conserve energy rather than use it. As a result, the spleen and stomach tend to experience some functional weakening in winter.
TCM perspectives on the spleen and stomach
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the spleen is the main transport, and the stomach is the main recipient. The spleen and stomach are nourished in winter, not only to prevent indigestion, but also to improve overall health. The health of the spleen and stomach directly affects the production of qi and blood, which affects the body's ability to resist diseases and recover.
The importance of dietary modification in winter
Due to the peculiarities of the spleen and stomach in winter, dietary adjustment becomes particularly important. It is advisable to choose foods that are easy to digest and warm the body. At the same time, avoid foods that are too cold, too hard, or too greasy, as these foods can increase the burden on the spleen and stomach.
Practical advice
Increase warm foods: such as ginger, jujubes, yams, etc., these foods help warm the spleen and stomach and promote digestion.
Light exercise: Moderate exercise can promote blood circulation in the spleen and stomach and enhance its function.
Adjust your diet Xi habits: Avoid excessive eating, especially at dinner, to reduce the burden on the spleen and stomach.
Oranges and the Spleen: A Sweet Winter Challenge
When discussing the effects of tangerines on the spleen and stomach, we first need to clarify the role of the spleen and stomach in the digestive system. In TCM theory, the spleen and stomach are regarded as the "acquired foundations" and are the centers of the body's energy conversion and nutrient absorption. Modern medicine also emphasizes the digestion and absorption functions of the spleen and stomach.
Tangerine, as a fruit rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, is especially popular during the winter months. Vitamin C has a significant effect on boosting immunity, while dietary fiber contributes to gut health. But for the spleen and stomach, the effect of tangerines is two-sided.
Positive effect
Digestion Promotion: The fiber in tangerines can help digestion, promote intestinal peristalsis, and prevent constipation.
Stomach comfort: A moderate amount of tangerines can increase gastric juice secretion and aid digestion.
Negative effects
Problems with excessive consumption: Eating large amounts of oranges can stimulate excessive gastric acid secretion due to their acidic composition, which may lead to stomach upset, especially for people with stomach problems such as excessive stomach acid and stomach ulcers.
Burden on the spleen and stomach: Traditional Chinese medicine believes that oranges are warm in nature, and excessive consumption may lead to dampness and heat in the spleen and stomach, manifested as mouth ulcers, diarrhea and other symptoms.
Recommendations for a balanced intake
To balance the positive effects of tangerines with the potential risks, it is advisable to:
Eat in moderation: The number of oranges consumed per day should be controlled to 2-3.
Special physical considerations: People with excessive stomach acid or indigestion should reduce their orange intake.