Overview of warming foods

Warming foods refer to foods that have the functions of warming, dispersing cold, and supporting yang according to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. They are suitable for people with weak constitutions, those who are afraid of cold, or in winter. This type of food can promote blood circulation and enhance the body's ability to resist cold, but excessive amounts may cause internal heat. The main content is divided into three parts:Definition and Characteristics(such as ginger, mutton),Suitable groups and taboos(Suitable for those with weak and cold constitution, use with caution for those with yin deficiency),Examples of common warm foods(Such as red dates, longan). Its working principle and practical suggestions will be elaborated below.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Principles of Warming Foods

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that warm and hot foods belong to "yang" and can dispel coldness in the body and balance yin and yang. For examplegingerContains gingerol, which can stimulate blood vessel dilation;muttonRich in protein and iron, it is suitable for postpartum or anemia patients. "Therapeutic Materia Medica" of the Tang Dynasty records that cinnamon "warms and relieves pain", and modern research has also confirmed that its volatile oil can increase body temperature. However, it should be noted that this type of food is often pungent and dry and should not be paired withCool food(such as white radish) can neutralize dryness and heat.

Suitable groups and typical symptoms

Warm food is especially suitableCold hands and feet, diarrhea and chillsThose with weak and cold constitution. For example, the "Huangdi Neijing" mentions that "what is cold is hot", and eating Chinese prickly ash in winter can relieve cold joint pain. However, those with yin deficiency and excessive fire (such as dry mouth) or patients with high blood pressure should control their intake to avoid aggravating symptoms. Children and pregnant women need to follow medical advice, such asDonkey-hide gelatin date(Produced by Dong'e Ejiao) Although it nourishes blood, excessive dosage may cause abdominal distension.

Common warm foods and pairing suggestions

The following table lists typical warming ingredients and their effects:

Common products on the market such asTongrentang ginger candy,Yunnan Baiyao Panax notoginseng stewed chicken, all with the selling point of warming and tonic.

Summary and Notes

Warm and hot foods are an important part of traditional Chinese medicine health care. Reasonable use can improve cold symptoms, but they need to be adjusted according to physical constitution. daily adviceA small amount of timesEat it and combine it with exercise to promote metabolism. Citing the views of the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" and Zhang Zhongjing's "Treatise on Febrile Diseases", it emphasizes "syndrome differentiation and feeding." If you feel unwell for a long time, you should consult a professional Chinese medicine practitioner to avoid blind supplementation.

Citing sources

1. "Huangdi Neijing", a medical classic of the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period
2. "Dietotherapeutic Materia Medica" written by Meng Shen in the Tang Dynasty
3. Products of Dong’e Ejiao Co., Ltd.: Ejiao Dates
4. Beijing Tongrentang Ginger Candy (Approval Number: BZ20210053)