As we all know, autumn is a season of dry weather. Many people experience symptoms like dry skin and itching, while others may suffer from rhinitis, dry mouth and throat, or constipation. Some believe drinking honey water in autumn can alleviate these dryness-related issues.
Can honey water truly combat autumn dryness?
Many women enjoy honey water during autumn. It does moisturize the throat and alleviate skin dryness, as honey water is rich in fructose and glucose. Fructose absorbs moisture more quickly and releases it more slowly, giving honey water excellent hydrating properties.When we drink honey water, the mucous membranes in our digestive tract stay moist longer, which can ease autumn-related issues like dry mouth and constipation.
Three key principles for hydration during dry autumn weather
1. Prioritize water intake
As autumn brings cooler temperatures, some people drink less water. If your body is already dehydrated and you don't replenish fluids, symptoms like dry mouth and dark yellow urine may arise. Therefore, autumn is precisely when you should increase water intake. Don't wait until you feel thirsty—develop the habit of drinking water regularly and in adequate amounts.This is especially crucial during high-temperature environments or strenuous physical labor, where additional hydration is necessary.
Beyond plain water, incorporate moderate amounts of green tea, black tea, or floral teas into your routine. Clear soups and light congee also serve as effective hydration sources.
2. Limit spicy, irritating foods and overly salty items
While some enjoy sunflower seeds, extra caution is needed in autumn. Since the season tends to be dry, consuming these seeds can exacerbate dry mouth, potentially leading to ulcers or inflammation in areas like the tongue and lips due to dehydration.Therefore, avoid excessive sunflower seed consumption in autumn. Also, steer clear of overly salty foods and limit spicy, pungent dishes like hot pot or spicy stews. Instead, prioritize fresh vegetables and fruits.
3. Supplement Vitamin A
Autumn often brings vitamin A deficiency, which can cause dry eyes and itchy, dry skin. As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin A maintains the integrity of skin and mucous membranes.A deficiency can dry out epithelial tissues, reduce tear gland secretion, and cause dry eye syndrome or corneal dryness—potentially leading to perforation. It also severely damages epithelial cells in hair follicles, sweat glands, and respiratory tracts, further triggering issues like follicular keratinization and skin dryness.
Therefore, during autumn and winter, it's advisable to supplement vitamin A appropriately. Incorporate foods like chicken liver, pork liver, duck eggs, and chicken eggs into your diet. Additionally, consume foods rich in carotenoids, such as spinach, pumpkin, carrots, and broccoli.
As you likely know, drinking honey water helps hydrate and moisturize during autumn's dry weather. Eating more vegetables and fruits, along with drinking plenty of plain water, can also alleviate autumn dryness symptoms.