With an estimated 16 calories per 100g, loofah is an ideal low-calorie food for weight loss and maintenance. It is also rich in fiber, which aids digestion, prevents constipation, and helps lower bad cholesterol, benefiting cardiovascular health.
Loofah is a good source of vitamins C and E, powerful antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage and slow down skin aging. Additionally, this fruit contains essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc, which boost immunity and support strong bones and joints.
During the summer, consuming loofah helps cool the body, acting as a diuretic and providing hydration. It also soothes the lungs, reducing throat dryness and the discomfort of heat.
However, loofah has some culinary “taboos” when combined with certain foods, so pay attention to avoid mixing them.
Turnip
Loofah has a cooling effect, while turnips are strongly cooling in nature. This combination can make the dish too “cold,” affecting digestion. For those with a weak stomach, consuming these two together may lead to stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhea. This is why it is commonly advised to avoid cooking loofah with turnips, especially when feeling unwell.
Spinach
Spinach contains high levels of oxalic acid, a compound that readily binds to minerals in other foods. Loofah, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin C. When consumed together, the vitamin C in loofah may react with oxalic acid, forming calcium oxalate. This substance not only reduces vitamin C absorption but can also accumulate in the body, hindering metabolism. For this reason, nutritionists often recommend against cooking or eating loofah with spinach.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains aloin, a natural laxative. Loofah also has a cooling and digestive-stimulating effect. When consumed together, the laxative properties are enhanced, leading to frequent bowel movements and even abdominal cramps. This combination is especially worth avoiding for those with a sensitive digestive system.
In addition to the above three foods, individuals with a weak spleen and stomach should also limit their consumption of loofah due to its cooling nature, which can slow down stomach function and cause bloating or diarrhea. Moreover, those with a history of loofah allergy should refrain from eating it altogether.
Below is a delicious and nutritious recipe for stir-fried loofah with mushrooms. Give it a try!
Ingredients
– 1 loofah
– 250g shiitake mushrooms
– 15g minced garlic
– 5g minced ginger
– 5g finely chopped green onion
– 4g salt
– 5g dried shrimp (or dried anchovies)
– 5g tapioca starch (mixed with 100g water to make starch water)
Instructions
– Peel the loofah and cut it into diagonal slices. Clean the shiitake mushrooms and quarter them. Smaller mushrooms can be halved.
– Heat a pan, add oil, and sauté the minced garlic, ginger, and green onion until fragrant. Add the loofah and stir-fry over high heat for about 1 minute, then add the mushrooms and continue cooking for 3 minutes until everything is tender.
– Season with salt and dried shrimp, mixing well to infuse the flavors.
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