In traditional Chinese medicine, health preservation is an extremely important concept. Traditional Chinese medicine health preservation not only emphasizes the health of the body, but also pays attention to harmony with nature. The five grains, five vegetables, five fruits, and five livestock are the core components of traditional Chinese medicine health preservation. They represent the rich ingredients provided by nature and contain profound health wisdom.
1、 Five Grains – The Source of Nourishing
Five grains refer to the five main cereal crops, including rice, wheat, beans, millet, and rice. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, these grains are not only the staple food of our daily diet, but also an important source of nourishment for the body.
- Rice: Rice is considered to have the effects of nourishing the stomach, harmonizing the middle, and clearing heat in traditional Chinese medicine. Especially suitable for summer consumption, it can help cool down and relieve heat. Rice porridge is a necessity for many families in the morning. It is easy to digest and is very suitable for people with weak spleen and stomach.
- Wheat: Whole wheat foods are rich in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for the health of the digestive system. Wheat is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to combat fatigue and improve physical strength. The combination of cereal and milk is not only nutritious, but also brings a lot of energy to people.
- Beans: Beans are an important source of plant protein, especially soybeans. Soybeans are rich in isoflavones, which are very helpful for women’s health. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, legumes are also considered to have the function of clearing heat and detoxifying, suitable for various health needs.
- Millet: Millet, also known as “millet” in traditional Chinese medicine, has the effect of strengthening the spleen and stomach, and is suitable for people with weak spleen and stomach. Millet porridge can not only nourish the stomach, but also calm the nerves. It is very suitable for eating at night as a snack.
- Rice: Glutinous rice is used in traditional Chinese medicine to warm yang and replenish qi, which helps to enhance the body’s resistance. Traditional delicacies such as glutinous rice and Zongzi are nostalgic and good choices for nourishing the body.
2、 Five Dishes – Rich Nutrient Choices
The “Five Vegetables” include various common vegetables, which are an essential part of our daily diet. These vegetables not only provide rich vitamins and minerals, but also help with detoxification and regulation of the body.
- Dark green vegetables: such as spinach, green vegetables, etc., are rich in chlorophyll, vitamin K, and iron, which help maintain blood health and enhance immunity. Its bitter taste can also help cool down and is suitable for summer consumption.
- Root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes are rich in fiber and starch, providing ample energy and enhancing gastrointestinal function. The beta carotene in carrots is particularly important for eye health.
- Legumes and vegetables: such as peas, green beans, etc. These vegetables are rich in nutrients and plant protein, and can replace meat as a food choice, making them a good companion for vegetarians.
- Brassicaceae vegetables: such as cauliflower and cabbage, are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can resist cell aging and improve the body’s ability to resist diseases.
- Scallions and ginger: These two are often used as seasonings, which not only enhance fragrance, but also stimulate appetite and enhance the body’s metabolic capacity.
3、 Five Fruits – Natural Sweetness
The five fruits include apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, pears, etc. Fruits are an important source of vitamins and minerals required by the human body, which can help maintain metabolism and enhance immunity.
- Apple: Apple is known as the “embodiment of nutrition”, and its rich fiber helps maintain intestinal health, aid in weight loss, and control blood sugar.
- Oranges: Rich in vitamin C, the refreshing taste of oranges can quickly boost people’s spirits. Oranges have an immune boosting effect, making them the best companion for flu season.
- Bananas: Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate electrolyte balance and prevent heart disease. In addition, the sugar it contains can quickly replenish energy for the body, making it very suitable for consumption after exercise.
- Grapes: The antioxidants in grapes can effectively combat free radicals and protect body cells. Moderate consumption can also promote cardiovascular health.
- Pear: Pear is the best choice for moistening the throat and clearing heat, suitable for consumption in autumn and winter. The abundant water it contains helps maintain the body’s water balance.
4、 Five Livestock – Reasonable Selection of Meat
Meat cannot be ignored in the process of health preservation. The term ‘five livestock’ refers to five common types of meat: pigs, cows, sheep, chickens, and ducks. Moderate and reasonable consumption can effectively supplement the high-quality protein needed by the body.
- Pork: Pork is a common meat that is rich in protein and can nourish the middle and qi, nourish yin and moisten dryness. Suitable for regular consumption, but pay attention to choosing lean meat and controlling fat intake.
- Beef: Beef is rich in iron, which can effectively improve anemia and increase body energy. The zinc contained in beef can enhance the immune system and strengthen the body’s resistance.
- Lamb: Lamb has a warm nature and is suitable for consumption in cold seasons. It can nourish and nourish the body, suitable for people with weak and cold constitution. Lamb soup is also one of the nourishing options.
- Chicken: Chicken has a silver white flesh, rich in protein and amino acids, nutritious, easy to digest and absorb, suitable for all kinds of people, especially children and the elderly.
- Duck meat: Duck meat is considered to have the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying in traditional Chinese medicine, and is suitable for use in winter. Especially duck breast, which has a lower fat content, is suitable for weight loss enthusiasts.
epilogue
The five grains, five vegetables, five fruits, and five livestock complement each other, forming a complete traditional Chinese medicine health system. Whether you want to enhance your physical fitness, lose weight, or have a balanced diet, you can make reasonable combinations based on these four aspects. Through a reasonable diet, combined with appropriate exercise and daily routine, you will be able to achieve the goal of physical and mental health and enjoy a happy life.
In the fast-paced modern life, it is advisable to spend more time focusing on one’s own health and wellness. Health preservation is not only about regulating the body, but also about caring for the soul. Physical health is the foundation for us to pursue our dreams.
