What not to eat with watermelon
In the hot summer season, watermelon, as a dessert, is deeply loved by the public. However, many people do not know that some foods eaten with watermelon may cause discomfort. This article will systematically analyze the dietary taboos of watermelon to help readers scientifically match ingredients and enjoy delicious food without any burden.
Analysis of Foods That Are Incompatible with Watermelon
1. Cold seafood ingredients
Seafood such as shrimp, crab, and shellfish are inherently cold in nature, and when eaten with watermelon, it can increase the burden on the digestive system. The low temperature environment can inhibit the activity of digestive enzymes, leading to hindered protein absorption and easily causing bloating and diarrhea. It is recommended to eat them 2 hours apart and pair with ginger tea to neutralize the coldness.
2. Tropical fruits high in tannins
Fruits like mangosteen and persimmon are rich in tannins, and when combined with the high water content of watermelon, it can dilute the concentration of stomach acid. When the pH value of gastric juice increases, it may cause indigestion. Nutritionists recommend consuming no more than 3 mangosteens per day and eating them 40 minutes apart from watermelon for safety.
3. Cold summer drinks
Drinks like mung bean soup and凉茶 (a Chinese herb tea) have a cumulative cold effect when combined with watermelon. Traditional Chinese medicine theory points out that excessive cold foods can lead to spleen and stomach deficiency, causing symptoms like cold limbs and reduced appetite. It is recommended to drink watermelon and mung bean soup at different times, with a small amount of warm nuts eaten in between as a buffer.
4. High-oil fried foods
Fried chicken, fried dough sticks, and other foods require 3-4 hours to digest, and when eaten with watermelon, it can cause a "cold and hot clash". The cold watermelon juice wrapping the oil can form a "waxy substance", increasing the burden on the intestinal peristalsis. Nutritionists suggest that after eating fried foods, there should be at least a 3-hour interval before eating watermelon.
5. Warming and nourishing meats
Hot meats like lamb and dog meat have an opposing nature when combined with watermelon. The Compendium of Materia Medica records that this combination can hinder the movement of qi, affecting nutrient absorption. Special groups such as pregnant women and postoperative patients should be more cautious and are recommended to have an interval of more than 4 hours before eating.
Mastering the principles of watermelon food pairing can allow you to enjoy delicious food while ensuring health. It is recommended to control the single serving size based on individual physical condition (200-300 grams per day for healthy people is suitable), maintain time intervals for special food combinations, moderately exercise after meals to aid digestion, and replenish warm salt water in case of discomfort.