Dr. Jing Qing, a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, emphasizes caution when consuming certain fruits in the fall and winter, particularly dragon fruit and watermelon, which are known for their strong cooling properties. “These fruits should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with weak spleens and stomachs, as overeating can lead to health issues like diarrhea,” she notes.
Recently, a case came to light involving Ms. Lin, a Chinese woman who experienced severe diarrhea after overindulging in dragon fruit. After consulting with Dr. Jing, it was determined that the excessive cooling nature of the fruit was the culprit. Dr. Jing explains that in addition to dragon fruit, other commonly consumed cooling fruits such as kiwi, pears, coconuts, and strawberries can also cause digestive problems if eaten in large quantities by those with spleen and stomach weaknesses.
She particularly warns that dragon fruit, especially the yellow and red varieties, can lead to diarrhea even in individuals with normal digestive function. “It’s best to limit intake to half a fruit at a time,” she advises.
For those with spleen and stomach deficiencies or who are prone to diarrhea, Dr. Jing recommends choosing fruits with warming or neutral qualities instead. Warming fruits include longan, peaches, mangoes, lychees, jujubes, and cherries, while neutral options consist of apples, papayas, blueberries, lemons, and grapes. She also advises against eating fruits that have been chilled, as this can exacerbate their cooling effects and impact health negatively.
As the fall and winter seasons approach, the air becomes drier, which can lead to symptoms of dryness in the body, such as dry skin and a dry mouth. “It’s important to eat foods that nourish and hydrate, such as pears, sugar cane, white fungus, and lotus root,” Dr. Jing suggests. She particularly highlights the benefits of lotus root in nourishing the lungs, alleviating cough, and combating dryness during autumn.
Dr. Jing underscores the traditional Chinese principle of adjusting one’s diet according to the seasons. As fall progresses, she advises focusing on nourishing yin, enriching the blood, and moisturizing the lungs while avoiding spicy foods that can further deplete lung qi. Incorporating slightly sour ingredients like spinach, apples, olives, and pomegranates can help consolidate lung qi and offer health benefits.
