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As age increases, the physical condition of the elderly faces various challenges. Especially in the hot summer, elderly individuals experience declining physical functions, and their digestive systems are often affected, leading to issues such as loss of appetite and indigestion.
By making appropriate dietary adjustments, especially consuming nourishing foods, elderly people can effectively help regulate their physical condition and improve the state of their digestive systems. For example, in the hot summer weather, many elderly individuals may feel weak due to dehydration or imbalanced nutrition.
Like Mr. Zhang, he has experienced such situations. He usually does not pay attention to his diet, enjoys cold drinks and greasy foods in summer, resulting in frequent stomach aches and lack of energy.
Later, following the advice of a doctor, Mr. Zhang began adjusting his diet, eating more bland foods that can replenish fluids and electrolytes, such as watermelon and bitter gourd. Gradually, his condition improved. Another example is an elderly lady, let’s call her Aunt Li. Aunt Li used to often feel discomfort in her stomach during summer, especially in the hot afternoons.
After a medical examination, it was found that her condition was partially due to weakened stomach function and incomplete food digestion. Therefore, the doctor suggested that she consume more foods that promote digestion and strengthen the spleen and stomach, such as mung bean porridge and lotus seeds. Through continuous dietary adjustments, Aunt Li’s stomach problems were well controlled.
Such stories are common, but they remind us that during summer, the diet of the elderly should receive more attention. In summer, it is essential not only to eat the right foods but also to emphasize the lightness and nutritional richness of foods.
Moderate intake of fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals, help adjust the body’s condition and combat discomfort brought by summer. At the same time, avoiding excessively greasy and spicy foods is essential for maintaining the gastrointestinal health of the elderly.
Although such dietary adjustments are simple, the results are significant. Let’s consider another fictional case of an elderly man named Mr. Wang. In the past, Mr. Wang often had diarrhea in summer, which the doctor analyzed was due to his consumption of raw and cold foods.
After guidance from the doctor, Mr. Wang started consuming warm foods, reduced the intake of raw and cold foods, and included suitable nourishing ingredients, such as lily and Chinese yam. Not only did his gastrointestinal function improve, but his overall well-being also significantly improved.
For the elderly, dietary adjustments in summer are not only for immediate relief but also for long-term maintenance of good health. Proper nourishing foods can strengthen the body, nourish the body, and help the elderly better navigate the hot summer days.
Firstly, we must mention hawthorn. Hawthorn is rich in vitamin C and minerals, promotes blood circulation, and its sweet and sour taste is very suitable for the elderly.
Moreover, hawthorn has a unique medical use – it can stabilize angina and assist heart function. For instance, there is a fictional elderly man named Mr. Zhao, who has a history of mild heart disease. Following the doctor’s advice, he began consuming an appropriate amount of hawthorn products daily, such as hawthorn slices or hawthorn beverages.
Several months later, Mr. Zhao noticed a reduction in his palpitation issue and an overall increase in vitality. This unique efficacy of hawthorn makes it an ideal dietary choice for the elderly during summer.
Secondly, okra’s spleen and stomach benefits should not be underestimated. Okra is rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, which is very helpful for common digestion issues in the elderly, such as constipation. Okra is also rich in antioxidants, helping with anti-inflammatory properties and cholesterol reduction.
These characteristics make okra an ideal vegetable choice in summer. For example, consider a fictional elderly lady, we’ll call her Grandma Chen, who used to experience discomfort due to stomach bloating. Following the doctor’s advice, she began consuming okra regularly. After a few weeks, she noticed a decrease in stomach discomfort and an overall lighter and more pleasant feeling.
Lastly, celery must be mentioned. Celery is common in Chinese cuisine, but many may not know that besides its crisp texture and low-calorie nature, it helps lower blood pressure and relieve tension in the nervous system.
The magnesium in celery helps relieve tension and improve sleep quality. For example, a fictional elderly lady, Grandma Wang, struggled with high blood pressure for years. After starting to consume celery daily, she noticed a decrease in her blood pressure readings, and her sleep improved.
Although these ingredients may not be prominent in our daily diet, they provide strong health support for the elderly in summer. They not only nourish the body but also help address common health issues in the elderly through their unique nutritional components.
During this summer, consider making these ingredients a regular part of the dining table to help the elderly enjoy a healthier and more comfortable summer. Besides food selection, lifestyle adjustments can significantly impact the elderly.
Firstly, we cannot overlook the impact of appropriate physical activities on spleen and stomach health. For example, Tai Chi is a highly suitable form of exercise for the elderly as it not only enhances flexibility and balance but also regulates visceral functions and promotes health. Research shows that elderly individuals who regularly practice Tai Chi experience significant improvement in their digestive system.
For instance, a fictional character named Grandpa Sun started practicing Tai Chi after retirement. Not only did his stomach issues improve, but his back pain also alleviated.
Next, let’s discuss regular massage therapy. Massage can stimulate acupoints in the abdomen, promote blood circulation, and help improve the functioning of the digestive system. Particularly for the elderly, gentle abdominal massages can aid in relieving stomach discomfort and promoting digestion. This method does not require intense physical activity and is suitable for elderly individuals with weaker physical strength.
For instance, imagine an elderly lady, Grandma Yang, who frequently felt discomfort due to chronic gastritis. She began receiving professional abdominal massage therapy. Several months later, she noticed a significant improvement in her digestion and an increase in appetite.
Through these practical lifestyle adjustments, the elderly can not only address their spleen and stomach issues but also enhance their overall quality of life. While these methods are simple, actively practicing them in daily life allows the elderly to enjoy summer while maintaining a healthy digestive system.
These lifestyle adjustments, coupled with dietary choices, form a comprehensive health assurance system that enables every elderly individual to enjoy their later years in good health.
What are your thoughts on summer diet? Feel free to discuss in the comments section!
References
[1]. Wei XQ, Zhao LY, Yu DM, Ju LH. Advances in research on dietary patterns and influencing factors of the elderly at home and abroad. China Food and Nutrition 2022,28(2):58-65
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