The stomach is a very important part of our digestive system in the human body; however, with the improvement of living standards, the incidence of stomach illness is increasing. Stomach problems are common, not only because of various persistent symptoms but also because they are prone to recurrence and difficult to cure. Therefore, having a good stomach is essential for enjoying food and good sleep.
There are many causes of stomach illness, such as uneven hunger and fullness, overeating at dinner, or eating hurriedly. Stomach health relies on nourishment; these three foods can help nourish and protect the stomach!
1. Cabbage
Cabbage, also known as round cabbage, is rich in nutrients such as vitamin B1, B2, C, U, fiber, carbohydrates, and various minerals. Vitamin U, a water-soluble substance in cabbage, has a reparative effect on gastric and duodenal ulcers. Cabbage is known as a natural “stomach food,” as its nutrients not only prevent gastric ulcers and protect and repair gastric mucosa but also maintain normal gastric cell function to reduce the risk of disease. It is a common vegetable on our dining tables.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in protein, starch, pectin, fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and various minerals. Sweet potatoes are beneficial for stomach health; the dietary fiber they contain aids digestion, increases appetite, and relieves food stagnation. However, sweet potatoes can stimulate gastric acid secretion, so those with excessive stomach acid or frequent acid reflux should consume them with caution. Eating sweet potato porridge or steamed sweet potatoes is a good choice. It is not recommended to consume roasted sweet potatoes from street vendors as they may be burnt, and hygiene standards may not be ensured.
3. Spinach
The beta-carotene in spinach is 150 times that of onions, four times that of Chinese cabbage, and twice that of leeks; the vitamin E content is five times that of celery; the vitamin C content is 2.5 times that of carrots and four times that of celery; the potassium content is 2.5 times that of Chinese cabbage, the calcium content is 1.5 times that of Chinese cabbage, and the iron content is twice that of rapeseed; the dietary fiber content is twice that of radishes. Spinach aids in gastric acid secretion, food digestion, and the treatment of food retention. It also helps neutralize stomach acid and alleviate stomach pain.
Apart from these three foods that can nourish and protect the stomach, what are some other good ways to alleviate stomach pain in daily life?
In fact, many acupoints in our body correspond to internal organs. For example, the Daling point (located in the middle of the wrist flexion crease on the palm side) belongs to the earth element in Five Elements theory, corresponding to the spleen and stomach. This point can be considered as a classic “stomach tonic” in acupuncture. Pressing this point can reduce stomach fire, clear heart fire, and enhance stomach function. Those with spleen-stomach disharmony or poor digestion can regulate through this acupoint.
