The wheat grains are gradually filling out, and the early signs of summer are in full bloom. Today marks the "Grain Buds" solar term, signifying that crops are beginning to plump up, but are not yet fully ripe. At this time, temperatures rise, rainfall is abundant, and humidity and heat intertwine. Health preservation should focus on "clearing heat and removing dampness, nourishing the heart and strengthening the spleen," and the diet should be light and refreshing to prepare for the height of summer.

During Grain Buds, it is advisable to clear heat and remove dampness. The following seasonal vegetables and vegan recipes are recommended:

White Beans: Rich in protein and B vitamins, they can replenish the energy consumed in summer and relieve fatigue. Their high dietary fiber and potassium content helps to expel excess water from the body, combating the damp heat of Lesser Fullness.

    Vegan Recipes: Stir-fried White Beans with Preserved Olive Vegetables, Vegan White Bean Noodle Soup, Steamed White Beans with Garlic.

Water Spinach: Cool in nature and sweet in taste, it can clear heat and detoxify, cool the blood and promote urination, making it a boon for removing dampness in summer. Rich in Vitamins A and C, it can enhance the resistance of skin and mucous membranes, and its high fiber content promotes smooth bowel movements.

    Vegan Recipes: Stir-fried water spinach with fermented bean curd, Stewed water spinach with ginger and shredded ginger, Stir-fried water spinach with vegan shrimp paste.

Bitter melon: Its bitterness comes from quinine and momordicin, which can clear the mind and improve eyesight, relieve summer heat, and promote appetite. It has the highest Vitamin C content among melons, and when combined with insulin analogs, it helps regulate blood sugar, making it an excellent summer health food.

    Vegan Recipes: Braised bitter melon with preserved mustard greens, Vegan bitter melon omelet, Vegan pineapple and bitter melon soup.

During the Grain Buds, use cooling and dampness-removing vegetarian foods to balance internal heat and welcome a full and energetic summer!