During the Mid-Autumn Festival, mooncakes become essential delicacies for every household celebrating the holiday, and they are also a great choice for exchanging heartfelt sentiments among friends and family. However, for patients with cardiovascular diseases, while enjoying the deliciousness of mooncakes, it is crucial to remember the principle of moderation to avoid health issues.
The higher fat content in mooncakes, especially certain varieties made with lard as filling, may exacerbate the condition of patients with heart disease and hyperlipidemia, raising blood fat levels, thickening the blood, and potentially interfering with the coronary blood flow that is vital for the myocardium, thus threatening the blood supply to the heart. Patients with cerebrovascular diseases should be even more cautious, as excessive consumption of mooncakes may increase the risk of stroke.
So, how should cardiovascular patients enjoy mooncakes more healthily? The first step is to be mindful in the selection of mooncakes, leaning towards low-fat options such as mochi-skinned mooncakes, while consumption of flaky products like salted egg yolk pastries and Cantonese mooncakes should be reduced. Additionally, mooncakes containing egg yolks, fatty meats, and other high-fat ingredients should also be consumed in moderation to prevent cholesterol levels from spiking, putting unnecessary strain on the heart.
Although mooncakes are small, their calories should not be overlooked; their satiating effect is relatively limited, making it easy to overeat. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with cardiovascular diseases cut mooncakes into small pieces to share with family, which helps control the intake while enjoying various flavors, enhances familial bonds, and adds to the festive joy. Importantly, do not overindulge, as the daily intake of mooncakes should not exceed one, ensuring a healthy holiday celebration.
