Sugarcane juice is a popular drink, but did you know that when combined with pineapple, it becomes a powerful digestive aid? According to herbalist Do Minh Tuan from the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, a healthy digestive system is crucial, especially during the summer when unrestrained eating can lead to discomfort and disorders.
“When digestion is off, the body cannot find peace. Therefore, every meal and every drink should not only fill the stomach but also nourish the digestive system (Tỳ Vị in Vietnamese) to strengthen our health from within,” said herbalist Minh Tuan.
While sugarcane juice on its own is a common refreshment, Mr. Tuan advised that mixing it with pineapple and consuming it in moderation, suited to one’s physical condition, can aid digestion. This combination stimulates the natural secretion of digestive juices and provides plant-based nutrition without relying on artificial enzymes or medication.
Adding a few slices of pineapple to sugarcane juice can greatly benefit digestion during the summer. Illustration
In Traditional Medicine, the digestive system is considered the root of physical well-being, where food is transformed into nutrients to nourish the body. A healthy digestive system leads to a better appetite and efficient digestion. Conversely, a weak digestive system can result in symptoms like bloating, slow digestion, fatigue, and loose stools.
“A weak digestive system can be caused not only by diet but also by lifestyle factors such as stress and irregular sleep patterns,” Mr. Tuan shared. He further emphasized that to “revive” the digestive system, drinking sugarcane-pineapple juice is just one aspect; it is equally important to maintain a balanced lifestyle, practice moderate eating habits, and engage in light physical activities.
Delving deeper into the topic, Mr. Tuan explained that sugarcane has a sweet taste and a neutral nature. It helps to tonify the middle burner and benefit qi (a concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine), generate body fluids, clear heat, and detoxify. It is suitable for people with Tỳ (spleen) deficiency, poor digestion, and bloating.
Pineapple, on the other hand, has a sweet and sour taste and a neutral nature. It is rich in the enzyme bromelain, which aids in protein digestion. In Traditional Medicine, pineapple is believed to reduce phlegm, eliminate dampness, relieve bloating, and support digestion. When combined, sugarcane and pineapple not only quench thirst and clear heat but also naturally stimulate digestion, reducing feelings of fullness and improving digestion.
According to herbalist Do Minh Tuan, the recipe for this digestive aid is simple: Mix one cup of fresh sugarcane juice (extracted from clean sugarcane) with 3-4 slices of ripe pineapple and a pinch of small salt crystals (to reduce sourness and balance the taste). Blend the pineapple with the sugarcane juice, add salt, and drink it fresh. It is recommended to consume this mixture 30 minutes before a meal to stimulate digestive juices and prepare the body for the main course.
While sugarcane juice is beneficial for quenching thirst and clearing heat, it should be consumed in moderation and appropriately. Illustration
To optimize the benefits, individuals with a weak digestive system or a tendency to experience cold stomachs should avoid drinking it chilled. Instead, they can let the sugarcane-pineapple juice reach room temperature or consume a small amount. People with diabetes or acute diarrhea should refrain from consuming large amounts of sugarcane and pineapple. The recommended frequency is 2-3 times a week, with a small glass each time.
“Everyone has a unique physical condition. Therefore, if you experience prolonged bloating or difficulty digesting, it is advisable to seek specialized medical examination to accurately diagnose the cause and avoid self-medicating with inappropriate dietary choices,” warned herbalist Do Minh Tuan.
Additionally, experts advise considering the following when consuming sugarcane juice during the summer:
– Drink in moderation: Limit your intake to 100ml or half a glass of sugarcane juice per day. This will help prevent a sudden increase in blood sugar levels.
– Avoid adding sugar: Sugarcane juice is naturally sweet, so adding sugar or honey can lead to excessive calorie intake and a rapid rise in blood sugar levels.
– Time your consumption: Drink it during the day when your energy levels are low. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach or in the evening, as it may cause a sudden spike in blood sugar and digestive issues.
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