In a recent interview with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner Dr. Jing, she highlighted the importance of being mindful about consuming certain fruits during the fall and winter seasons. Dr. Jing explained that fruits like dragon fruit and watermelon are classified as “cold” in TCM, and excessive intake could potentially lead to digestive issues, particularly for individuals with weaker digestion or those prone to diarrhea.
An illustrative case involves Ms. Lin, who recently experienced persistent diarrhea after eating too much dragon fruit. Upon consulting Dr. Jing, it was confirmed that the cold nature of the fruit was the culprit. Dr. Jing emphasized that while dragon fruit is popular due to its nutritional benefits, it should be consumed in moderation—ideally, no more than half a fruit at a time, even for those with normal digestive functions.
Beyond dragon fruit, Dr. Jing noted that other commonly consumed cold fruits include kiwi, pears, coconuts, and strawberries. These fruits are rich in nutrients but can pose digestive challenges for individuals with weak spleen and stomach functions. She advised that especially during the colder months, it’s crucial to limit intake of these fruits.
Another point Dr. Jing raised was about coconut water. While it is refreshing and hydrating, she cautioned that overconsumption can also lead to diarrhea—not just for those with weak digestion, but for healthy individuals as well.
For people with a sensitive digestive system, Dr. Jing recommends choosing fruits with warming or neutral properties. Warming fruits include longan, peaches, mangoes, lychee, dates, and cherries, while neutral options are apples, papayas, blueberries, lemons, and grapes. She reminded that fruits should not be served chilled, as this could exacerbate their cold nature and lead to adverse health effects.
As autumn and winter approach, with dryness in the air, Dr. Jing suggested incorporating foods that help combat dryness, such as pears, sugarcane, silver fungus, and lotus root. In particular, lotus root is praised for its nourishing properties and is effective for lung health and alleviating dry coughs. Dr. Jing emphasized that TCM principles advocate for adjusting one’s diet in accordance with the seasons.
With the arrival of dry weather in the fall, she recommended focusing on nourishing yin, supporting blood, and protecting lungs from dryness. It’s best to avoid overly spicy foods, which can exacerbate lung irritation. Instead, incorporating sour foods like spinach, apples, olives, and pomegranates can help consolidate lung energy and provide health benefits.
