The changes in nature are subtle. Even in the scorching heat of the major heat in midsummer, the climate undergoes a quiet transformation. Autumn begins when the sun reaches 135° of the ecliptic, and the weather gradually transitions from hot to cooler. Typically, after the End of Heat and White Dew, the weather truly becomes cooler.
Although the Beginning of Autumn marks the start of fall, it doesn’t truly signify the arrival of autumn. This period is more like a transition between summer and autumn, where plants make their final efforts for the upcoming harvest in autumn. As humans, we need to utilize this time to adjust reasonably, gradually adapting from the intense heat to the cooler and eventually cold weather approaching.
During the long summer, people don’t eat well, and sleep is disrupted, leading to most individuals losing weight. This condition is often referred to as “stagnation of summer heat.” Therefore, as the Beginning of Autumn approaches, there is a tradition of “fattening up for autumn” in which individuals consume nourishing foods to replenish the body and prepare for the cooler seasons. However, it’s essential not to overdo the diet in autumn, as our digestive system may be weaker due to environmental changes. Therefore, it’s crucial to be selective with food choices, favoring gentle foods and cooking methods, as benefiting from the diet truly depends on the right choices. As the saying goes, “In the Beginning of Autumn, avoid eating three things, as consuming them will cause discomfort.” Below are some considerations on dietary adjustments during the autumn seasonal transition.
1. Not only eating meats but also consume vegetables (balance between meat and vegetables)
During the Beginning of Autumn, the tradition of “fattening up for autumn” prompts many to think of consuming meats. Although meats provide significant protein and fat intake, it is crucial to maintain a balance between meat and vegetables in diet at all times and especially when indulging in fall nourishment. While supplementing with meats is essential, other foods like vegetables, mushrooms, soy products, grains, etc., should not be sidelined. This balance ensures comprehensive and balanced nutrition, contributing to a more comfortable digestive system.
Recommended recipe: Stir-fried Loofah with Dried Bean Curd
1. Gently break two dried bean curd sticks into small pieces, soak thoroughly in a large bowl with plenty of water until soft, then cut into small segments.
2. Peel the loofah and rinse the slimy layer off by washing with water, then cut into small pieces. If cooking is not immediate, it’s best to soak in cold water.
3. Heat oil in a pan, sauté some diced tomatoes until soft, then add a little soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rock sugar, adjusting with water if the sauce is too dry. Stir in the loofah and simmer for two minutes.
4. Add the dried bean curd to the pan, season with salt, and stir until well-cooked. Remove from heat and plate.
2. Avoid overeating
As we transition into the Beginning of Autumn, the weather cools down, and appetites tend to improve compared to summer. With rich seasonal ingredients available, it’s easy to unintentionally increase food consumption. While the Beginning of Autumn emphasizes nourishment, it’s crucial to eat in moderation. Overeating can burden the digestive system, leading to nutritional excess and potential weight gain. It is beneficial to supplement appropriately, aiming for a satiety level of 80%, which is more favorable for the body. Additionally, consuming soups aids in hydration and promotes better nutrient absorption.
Recommended consumption: Chinese Yam and Pork Rib Soup
1. Prepare one Chinese yam, clean, and cut into small pieces. Also, prepare some red dates, goji berries, and slices of ginger for flavor.
2. Choose lean pork ribs and chop into smaller pieces for better stewing. Blanch the ribs in boiling water to remove impurities.
3. Transfer the ribs to a clean pot, add water and some onions and ginger, and simmer for about an hour and a half.
4. Add the Chinese yam and dates, continue simmering for around twenty minutes until the yam is tender, then add goji berries and salt for seasoning.
3. Limit consumption of raw and cold fruits
As the saying goes, “Autumn melons may upset the stomach.” Melons are considered cold foods, and it’s advised to consume them less frequently in the autumn. Besides melons, some fruits available in autumn, such as grapes, pears, and pomelos, have cooling properties. Additionally, due to specific fruit characteristics, some are not suitable for direct consumption raw. Therefore, it’s recommended to heat fruits before consumption, either by cooking or steaming, for better digestive health in autumn.
Recommended recipe: Steamed Winter Dates
1. Soak the winter dates in water with a bit of baking soda and two spoonfuls of starch for ten minutes.
2. After washing and cleaning the winter dates, place them in a dish and steam for 15-20 minutes in high heat until softened and sweeter. Optionally, drizzle some honey for added flavor.
