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After the beginning of autumn, nature gradually transitions from the intensity of summer to the tranquility and coolness of autumn, which also means that our health preservation strategies need to be adjusted accordingly to follow the seasonal changes. During this period, dietary adjustments are particularly important, as they not only nourish the body and enhance immunity but are also key to preventing autumn dryness and maintaining physical and mental well-being.
After the beginning of autumn, the weather gradually becomes dry, and the diet should focus on nourishing yin and alleviating dryness. One can eat more foods that have lung-moistening and thirst-quenching effects, such as tremella, lily, pear, and honey; these foods can help relieve the discomfort brought about by autumn dryness. At the same time, according to traditional Chinese medicine’s principle of “less spicy and more sour,” the intake of spicy foods like scallions, ginger, and garlic should be reduced to avoid worsening autumn dryness; while appropriately increasing the intake of sour foods, such as hawthorn and grapes, can help regulate lung qi and protect the liver. There is an old saying in folk culture: “Eat fruits in autumn, and there’s no need for medicine!” After the beginning of autumn, it is recommended to regularly consume these five autumn fruits for a healthy transition into this season!
1: Fig: This small fruit hides a big surprise. Figs after the beginning of autumn are plump, soft, and sweet without being cloying; every bite is a gift from nature. Figs are not only rich in dietary fiber, promoting gastrointestinal motility and aiding digestion, but they also contain abundant vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, which help enhance the body’s immunity, allowing you to maintain abundant vitality in autumn. Notably, the sweet fragrance of figs carries a hint of subtle creaminess that leaves a lingering aftertaste.
2: Peach: Just mentioning peaches conjures the fragrance of fresh fruit. Peaches during the autumn season have shed the greenness of summer, becoming more fragrant and juicy. The peach flesh is delicate and soft; with a gentle bite, the juice bursts forth, creating a sensation of happiness. Not only are peaches delicious, but they are also rich in various antioxidants, such as vitamin E and β-carotene, which effectively combat free radicals, protect cells from damage, and help maintain skin elasticity and glow while enjoying delightful flavors.
3: Pear: During the dry autumn, pears become a top choice for alleviating dryness. Pears after the beginning of autumn are sweet and juicy, with a crisp texture; one bite feels instantly refreshing. Pears are not only rich in water and dietary fiber, aiding in detoxification, but they also contain a wealth of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, which help enhance the body’s resistance to common autumn ailments like colds and coughs. Additionally, pears’ well-known heat-clearing and lung-moistening properties effectively relieve discomfort caused by autumn dryness.
4: Grape: A cluster of crystal-clear grapes is the most tempting sight of autumn. Grapes after the beginning of autumn are plump, beautifully colored, with a sweet yet slightly sour flavor, providing a rich taste experience. Grapes are not only delicious but are also packed with various beneficial nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin P, and multiple minerals and antioxidants. Moreover, the anthocyanins found in grapes have powerful antioxidant properties that can resist aging and help maintain youthful skin.
5: Apple: As a representative of evergreen fruits, apples retain their freshness and vitality even after the beginning of autumn. Apples at this time are crunchier, with a moderate sweetness that tempts the taste buds with every bite. Apples are not only rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, which aid digestion and enhance immunity, but they also contain abundant pectin and potassium. Additionally, apples provide a strong sense of fullness, making them a great helper for weight loss during autumn.
After the beginning of autumn, yang energy starts to gather, and daily activities should align with this natural rhythm, promoting an early sleep and early rise. Early sleep can follow the gathering of yang energy, helping the body recover better; furthermore, early rising aids in lung qi expansion, preventing excessive gathering.
