On a quiet autumn morning, I bumped into Grandma Li while walking in the community park. Her face was ruddy, her steps were brisk, and her energetic state made me curious. As a doctor, I have always been curious about health and longevity. I couldn't resist stepping up to her and asking her for her secret. Grandma Li told me with a smile that she drank a special drink every morning – apples cooked with several other ingredients. This not only refreshed her spirits, but also strengthened her spleen and stomach.
Apples: Nature's multifunctional treasure trove of nutrients
Apples are rich in nutrients that are not only beneficial to the body but also play an important role in preventing several diseases. First of all, apples are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and fights off daily viral infections. Scientific studies have shown that regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition to vitamin C, apples also contain a lot of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is essential for maintaining gut health. A medium-sized apple contains about 4 grams of fiber, which accounts for nearly 20% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Dietary fiber not only aids digestion but also controls blood sugar levels, which is very helpful for preventing type 2 diabetes and maintaining a healthy weight.
In addition, apples are a good source of potassium. Potassium is an important mineral for heart health and helps regulate blood pressure. Many studies have shown that a potassium-rich diet can help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Finally, the health effects of the polyphenolic compounds in apples cannot be ignored. Polyphenols have a powerful antioxidant effect and are able to resist the damage of free radicals to the body. Long-term consumption of polyphenol-rich foods, such as apples, may reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Magical Pairing: Apples and super ingredients that replenish qi and blood
In this section, we will delve into several ingredients that go well with apples, which not only enhance the taste of apples, but also enhance the nutritional value of apples, and jointly promote qi and blood replenishment and strengthen the spleen and stomach.
First of all, jujube is an excellent choice. Jujube is rich in vitamin C and iron, and has long been used to replenish blood. A study showed that a moderate daily intake of jujube can effectively increase hemoglobin levels, which has a significant improvement effect on anemia.
Next up is wolfberry, a common Chinese medicinal herb that is widely used for health preservation. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants such as β-carotene and vitamin C, which help improve immunity and vision health. On the other hand, goji berries also have certain benefits for enhancing liver function and improving the digestive system.
Finally, ginger has to be mentioned. Ginger contains gingerol, a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient. It can promote blood circulation, and at the same time has a good relieving effect on indigestion and stomach discomfort.
The combination of apples, dates, goji berries and ginger not only makes for a delicious and healthy drink, but it also helps to replenish important nutrients that may be lacking in the daily diet for middle-aged and elderly people. For example, a drink with these ingredients a day can not only boost your spirits, but also help maintain blood health and improve digestive function. Such a dietary Xi, with long-term adherence, is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Secret Revealed: Easy steps to cook an apple partner drink
In autumn, the apples are in season, sweet and juicy. Choose red Fuji or green apples, each cut into eight petals, without peeling. Ten red dates, soak them in warm water and remove the pits. A handful of wolfberries and three slices of ginger, all washed and set aside. Prepare a medium pot, add 1500ml of water, add apples, dates and ginger when the water boils, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. At this point, the sweetness of the apple blends with the aroma of the dates, and the ginger provides a warm spicy note. In the last five minutes, add the goji berries to preserve their nutrients and color.
Studies have shown that apples are rich in vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for blood circulation. Red dates and wolfberries are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to nourish blood and strengthen the spleen and stomach. Ginger, as a natural anti-inflammatory, helps to boost the body's immunity.
The boiled drink has a ruddy color and aroma. It is suitable for drinking in the morning to awaken the vitality of the day, and it is suitable for the evening to help relieve the fatigue of the day. Not only does it have a mellow taste, but it also contains natural nutrients. This drink is suitable for all ages, especially middle-aged and elderly people, and can be used as part of the daily diet to enhance the quality of life.
Drink for Health: The right way to drink apple partner drinks
A drink with apples is more than just an ordinary drink, it contains a secret to health. Drinking it the right way maximizes its nutritional value and brings more health benefits.
First and foremost, time is of the essence. Drinking this drink in the morning on an empty stomach activates the digestive system and helps the body absorb nutrients. It is not recommended to drink it at night to avoid possible indigestion. For people with a weak spleen and stomach, the drinking temperature should not be too hot, so as not to irritate the gastric mucosa.
Secondly, quantity is also important. One cup a day is sufficient, and excessive consumption can cause stomach burden. Especially for diabetics, although apples are low in sugar, they still need to be controlled in moderation.
Let's take a look at the specific ingredient combinations. Red dates and goji berries are excellent choices, as they not only add flavor to the drink, but are also rich in iron and vitamins that help replenish blood and improve immunity. One study showed that jujube is very rich in vitamin C, which helps to enhance the body's absorption of iron.
Finally, individual differences cannot be overlooked. Everyone's physique is different, and their reaction to food is also different. It is recommended to start with a small amount and gradually increase to the appropriate amount to observe the body's reaction when trying it for the first time. If there is any discomfort, you should stop drinking immediately and consult a doctor.