As autumn deepens, middle-aged and elderly individuals should adjust their wellness strategies. Autumn is divided into early, mid, and late phases, each with distinct characteristics requiring tailored approaches to health preservation in response to seasonal shifts.Breakfast can be replaced with coix seed porridge or coix seed water. Add ingredients like Chinese yam and lotus seeds to daily cooking. A daily cup of American ginseng tea also strengthens the spleen and benefits the stomach. Additionally, avoid overeating, excessive drinking, and consuming greasy or sweet foods to prevent indigestion.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Prevent Dryness and Moisten the Lungs. The climate during this period is characterized by the prevalence of dryness, which most easily damages the lungs, leading to symptoms like dry mouth and nose, dry cough, and sore throat. The key to health preservation is nourishing yin and moistening the lungs. Drink plenty of fluids such as plain water, light tea, soy milk, and milk. Additionally, lily bulbs have the effect of nourishing yin, moistening the lungs, and calming the mind. Try lily and lotus seed soup or stir-fried lily bulbs.Increase pear consumption. Pears are said to "clear heat from the six腑 when raw and nourish yin in the five脏 when cooked." Eating raw pears effectively alleviates symptoms like dry, sore, itchy throat, hoarseness, constipation, and dark urine associated with upper respiratory infections. Alternatively, simmer pear chunks with rock sugar for optimal relief of phlegm-heat and cough.
Maintain adequate indoor humidity and ventilation. Use a mop frequently or employ a humidifier to prevent depletion of vital fluids caused by strenuous exercise or excessive fatigue.
Protect blood vessels from cold in late autumn. As temperatures gradually drop, sudden cold snaps and cold waves can significantly increase myocardial infarction rates. Cardiovascular patients must adhere to medication regimens and prioritize foods rich in protein, magnesium, and calcium in their diets. Drink a glass of plain water upon waking to thin the blood. Ensure adequate warmth during outdoor exercise.