In winter, as temperatures drop, many people tend to consume high-calorie foods to stay warm, which can lead to heat accumulation in the body. However, eating fruit to balance this is often overlooked or done incorrectly, negatively impacting health.

To address this, experts offer guidance on how to consume fruit during the cold season. Sun Ye, a traditional Chinese medicine expert in Shenyang, China, and Doctor Huang Yuxiao from the Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine provide valuable insights.

The type of fruit suitable for consumption varies depending on an individual's physical condition.

For those experiencing dry lips and constipation: Spending extended periods in air-conditioned or heated rooms can lead to a deficiency of bodily fluids. Individuals in this group should choose fruits such as pear, sugarcane, and dragon fruit to help hydrate and generate new fluids.

For those who are sensitive to cold and have cold hands and feet: People with naturally weak yang energy and a pale complexion should prioritize warming fruits. These include apple, longan, and red dates. Durian can also be consumed in moderation to help dispel cold energy.

For individuals experiencing stress and unstable blood pressure: When the weather turns cold, blood vessels constrict, which can easily cause aches or irritability. Eating hawthorn, orange, and mandarin can help promote qi circulation, activate blood flow, and relax the mind.

Anh minh hoa:Tasting Table

Common mistakes when eating fruit

A frequent mistake many people make is eating fruit immediately after taking it out of the refrigerator. The excessively low temperature can "freeze" the digestive system, leading to stomach ache or diarrhea.

Experts recommend allowing fruit to reach room temperature or soaking it in warm water before consumption. For the elderly or young children who have sensitive digestive systems, the best approach is to cook the fruit. Examples include: steamed pear with rock sugar, deseeded red date tea, or steamed apple. Cooking helps reduce the fruit's "cold" nature, making it easier for the stomach to absorb during winter.

The ideal time to eat fruit

Many people habitually eat fruit right after a meal as a dessert, but this practice is not scientifically sound.

The most ideal time to consume fruit is between two main meals. At this point, fruit helps supplement energy and vitamins without hindering the digestion of the main meal's food, while also allowing the body to absorb nutrients optimally.

Nhat Minh (According to Sina/Healthy China)