Many health-conscious individuals have a particular fondness for soups and congees. These diverse broths and soups are not only nutrient-rich but also add vibrancy to daily life.
Soups, congees, broths, and juices form a vital component of traditional Chinese medicinal cuisine, long valued by health practitioners. Simple to prepare, nutrient-dense, and easily digestible, they are particularly suited for children, the elderly, and those with weakened constitutions. By adhering to the principle of "timing and selection"—choosing the most appropriate broth at the optimal time—one can elevate daily meals into "medicinal tonics."
Morning hydration.An ancient Chinese proverb advises, "Salt water in the morning, honey water at night." Upon waking, drinking a glass of plain water or lightly salted water replenishes fluids lost overnight and helps "awaken" the body. Additionally, since mornings typically involve more mental work, having a glass of milk with breakfast can stimulate intestinal motility and meet the body's needs for calcium and protein. For seniors with poor digestion, light congee is also an excellent choice.
Soup at noon. Consuming soup before lunch not only offers health benefits but also allows food to coat the stomach lining, nourishing the stomach while increasing satiety. This helps prevent overeating, making it particularly beneficial for those managing weight or aiming to lose weight. Radish soup, winter melon soup, tomato soup, kelp soup, and seaweed soup are all excellent choices.
Have porridge for dinner. Li Shizhen, a renowned Ming Dynasty medical expert, praised porridge in his Compendium of Materia Medica as "exceptionally smooth and gentle, harmonizing perfectly with the digestive tract—truly the most exquisite secret of nourishment."Traditional Chinese medicine holds that congee replenishes yin fluids, generates gastric juices, strengthens the spleen and stomach, and nourishes deficiencies, making it ideal for sustaining vitality. Consumed in the evening, it replenishes energy depleted throughout the day while being easily digested and absorbed. When preparing congee, incorporate ingredients like Chinese yam, lily bulbs, sesame seeds, adzuki beans, or walnuts according to individual constitution to enhance its health benefits.
Sip honey before bed.Honey, with its sweet taste and neutral nature, has long been prized for nourishing vitality, detoxifying, and beautifying the complexion. Its glucose and fructose are readily absorbed by the body, effectively moistening the lungs to relieve coughs, lubricating the intestines to promote bowel movements, and detoxifying for radiant skin. Taking 10–20 milliliters of honey dissolved in warm water before bed provides a "sweet ending" to a busy day while soothing the stomach, lubricating the intestines, and improving sleep quality.