What to Eat During the Winter Solstice

Today marks the fourth solar term of winter, "Winter Solstice," which signifies the shortest day and longest night of the year. After the Winter Solstice, we will enter the coldest phase of the year. During this time, it is beneficial to consume dishes made from the following vegetables:

White Radish

White radish has a high water content, approximately 95% water. Daily intake of adequate water can promote metabolism, lubricate the digestive tract, and help with digestion and waste elimination. White radish is also rich in vitamin C, which helps maintain the vitality of various immune cells, delays aging, and supports the body's immune system.

Ways to eat: Braised beef with white radish, white radish tofu vermicelli soup, and peppery lamb stew with white radish.

Celery

Celery is high in dietary fiber and low in calories, providing a feeling of fullness that can help with weight control. Additionally, celery contains a significant amount of potassium, which helps balance sodium and water in the body and supports cardiovascular health.

Ways to eat: Stir-fried chicken with celery, creamy celery soup, and celery juice.

Taro

Taro is rich in starch and dietary fiber while containing only a small amount of fat, making it an ideal source of carbohydrates and fiber.

Ways to eat: Boiled taro, taro pumpkin braised chicken, and ginkgo taro puree.

Reference: "The Complete Book of Vegetable Nutrition" (Registered Dietitian, United Christian Nethersole Community Health Service, 2015).