Introduction: “Chinese Dietary Guidelines for Residents (2022)” pointed out that it is more appropriate for healthy adults to consume 200-350 grams of fruit daily. Moreover, eating fruits is not arbitrary, it should be in accordance with the seasons. Because the “Yellow Emperor’s Internal Classic” states: “Do not eat out of season,” which means that diet must follow the laws of nature for the body to be healthier. For example, after the beginning of the heat spell, many people tend to eat more watermelon and mangosteen, which are seasonal fruits. However, after the beginning of the heat spell, it is advisable to consume less watermelon and mangosteen because if these fruits are kept for a long time, they can breed harmful bacteria and are quite cooling in nature, excessive consumption may hurt the stomach.
Every year after the beginning of the heat spell, I always recommend that everyone consume more alkaline fruits because alkaline fruits contain a large number of trace elements. Eating more alkaline fruits can help maintain normal metabolism. For example, the 5 alkaline fruits I will introduce today are suitable for consumption during the hottest days, they help replenish fluids and cool down without harming the stomach.
First: Peaches
As the saying goes, “Peaches nourish people, apricots harm people, and under the plum tree lies a corpse.” After the beginning of the heat spell, peaches are fruits that should be eaten every day. Peaches are rich in nutrients and water content, consuming them in moderation can provide the body with nutrients and hydration. Especially, peaches are high in dietary fiber and vitamins. For those who often suffer from constipation, eating a few peaches can accelerate intestinal peristalsis, facilitating smooth bowel movements.
When buying peaches, if you purchase firm peaches, you can buy more. However, if you buy ripe peaches, it is recommended to only buy 3-4 at a time because ripe peaches should be consumed within 1-2 days to avoid spoilage. If kept for too long, peaches can turn bitter.
Second: Grapes
Grapes are sweet and tangy, whenever I have a poor appetite, I enjoy eating a small bunch of grapes. Grapes are sour and help stimulate saliva production, which is beneficial in relieving dry mouth and cough symptoms. Both young and old, during the heat spell, should consume more grapes. Grapes also contain antioxidants, which have skin-whitening effects.
When eating grapes, it is important to soak them in a solution of baking soda and water, as grapes tend to have a lot of dirt on their surface. Simply rinsing them in water or saltwater may not effectively clean the grapes, and consuming unwashed grapes can lead to diarrhea.
Third: Blueberries
Blueberries are slightly pricey fruits, but they are recommended to be consumed during the heat spell. This is because blueberries contain anthocyanins, which can promote the regeneration of rhodopsin in retinal cells, thus protecting and enhancing eyesight. Despite their delicious taste, finding tasty blueberries can be challenging. Therefore, it is suggested to purchase good-quality blueberries, wash them thoroughly, and turn them into blueberry sauce to consume daily for excellent eye health.
Fourth: Bananas
As the saying goes, “Consume potassium in summer to stay strong and healthy.” During the heat spell, when the weather is hot and people sweat a lot, it is essential to replenish potassium. Bananas are one of the fruits with the highest potassium content. Consuming 1-2 bananas daily can provide the body with sufficient potassium, alleviating feelings of fatigue. Additionally, bananas are rich in dietary fiber and promote intestinal motility, promoting a healthier digestive system.
Due to the hot weather, bananas tend to ripen quickly. Therefore, when purchasing bananas, either buy a few or choose slightly greener bananas, as they have a longer shelf life. If bananas start to smell like alcohol, it indicates spoilage, and such bananas should not be consumed.
Fifth: Dates
After the beginning of the heat spell, Shaanxi dates are available in the market. Freshly harvested dates during this time are sweet and crunchy, albeit a bit pricey at 10-15 yuan per kilogram. Despite the cost, I still recommend buying some every two days. Dates are excellent for replenishing qi and blood, strengthening the spleen and stomach, making one appear more energetic and spirited. While dates may be expensive, it is advisable to purchase a moderate amount each time, as prices tend to decrease as the season progresses.
When buying dates, it is important to taste one discreetly because some visually appealing dates may not taste good, while others that look unattractive could be delicious. Tasting before purchase can prevent wasted expenses.
After the beginning of the heat spell, it is suggested to consume fewer watermelons and mangosteens and opt for the “peaches, grapes, blueberries, bananas, and dates” 5 alkaline fruits for hydration and stomach health. If you found this article helpful, please consider liking and following for more insights into cooking tips and health advice. Thank you for reading.
