Why should we nourish our lungs in autumn?

The climate in autumn is dry. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that "the lungs are delicate organs" and are susceptible to invasion by dryness evil. Therefore, nourishing the lungs has become the focus of health care in autumn.This article will start fromThe impact of autumn dryness on the lungs, dietary adjustments to nourish the lungs, and adjustments to living habitsandRecommended common lung-nourishing foodsIt is developed in four aspects to help readers scientifically protect their lungs.

1. Damage to the lungs caused by dryness in autumn

In autumn, Yang Qi gradually shrinks, the humidity in the air decreases, and dryness evil easily invades the lungs directly through the respiratory tract.The Classic of Traditional Chinese Medicine "Huangdi Neijing" points out that "dryness in autumn leads to coughing in winter." Long-term dryness may lead to dry throat, chapped skin, constipation and other problems, and even induce respiratory diseases such as bronchitis.Modern medical research also shows that a dry environment will weaken the defensive function of the respiratory mucosa (data source: 2021 study in "Chinese Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine").

2. Three principles of diet to nourish the lungs

1.Mainly white food: According to the Five Elements Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, white enters the lungs, such as lily, white fungus, yam, etc., which are rich in colloid and can moisturize the lungs.Professor Wang Qi from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine recommends "Sydney Lily Soup" as a classic dietary therapy in autumn.
2.Supplement high-quality protein: The protein in fish and soy products can repair respiratory tissue. The Chinese Nutrition Society recommends a daily intake of no less than 60g.
3.Avoid spicy and exciting: Chili, barbecue and other foods can aggravate the heat in the body. Clinical data from Tongrentang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic shows that reducing spicy food in autumn can reduce the incidence of respiratory discomfort by 30%.

3. Practical ways to nourish the lungs in daily life

1.Take deep breaths in the morning: Adopting abdominal breathing (expanding the abdomen when inhaling) can increase lung capacity. Research from the Respiratory Department of Huashan Hospital shows that taking deep breaths for 15 minutes a day can increase blood oxygen saturation by 2-3%.
2.Maintain ambient humidity: Use a humidifier to maintain 50%-60% humidity and avoid direct air-conditioning blowing for a long time.
3.moderate exercise: The "single lift to regulate the spleen and stomach" movement in Baduanjin is particularly suitable for autumn practice, as it can promote the movement of qi and blood in the lung meridian.

4. Common lung-nourishing foods and products

Summary:To nourish the lungs in autumn, we need to focus on three aspects: "preventing dryness, moisturizing and exercising".Replenish body fluids through dietary conditioning, enhance lung function with breathing exercises, and pay attention to environmental humidity regulation.It is recommended to choose natural ingredients with the same source of medicine and food. If necessary, you can use lung-moistening products produced by regular manufacturers (such as Nianci'an loquat ointment).It should be noted that if symptoms such as persistent cough and hemoptysis occur, you should seek medical treatment in time and do not rely solely on dietary therapy.

References:
1. The Four Seasons Health Preservation Theory of "Huangdi Neijing"
2. "Physique of Traditional Chinese Medicine" by Professor Wang Qi from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
3. Chinese Nutrition Society's "Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents" 2022 Edition
4. Guilin Sanjin Pharmaceutical, Kyoto Nianci’an, Tongrentang and other companies disclose product information