What are the benefits and drawbacks of drinking sour plum soup in summer?
Jun 05, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the benefits of sour plum drink mainly include promoting saliva secretion to relieve thirst, clearing heat and relieving summer heat, stimulating appetite, aiding digestion, and reducing fatigue. Potential drawbacks include dental problems, spleen and stomach damage, elevated blood sugar levels, increased internal dampness, and excessive gastric acid production. Sour plum drink is relatively cold in nature; therefore, children, women during menstruation, and individuals with yang deficiency should use it cautiously. It should be consumed in moderation and not in large quantities at one time.
Generally, the benefits of sour plum drink mainly include promoting saliva secretion to relieve thirst, clearing heat and relieving summer heat, stimulating appetite, aiding digestion, and combating fatigue. Potential drawbacks include dental problems, spleen and stomach damage, elevated blood sugar, increased internal dampness, and increased gastric acid production. If discomfort occurs, seek medical advice promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Benefits
1. Promotes Saliva Secretion and Relieves Thirst: Sour plum drink is made by simmering ingredients such as smoked plums (wu mei), hawthorn, and dried tangerine peel. Drinking it in summer helps generate body fluids and quench thirst, effectively alleviating symptoms like dry mouth and thirst caused by hot weather.
2. Clears Heat and Relieves Summer Heat: Sour plum drink has properties that clear heat and detoxify the body. It helps reduce internal heat and relieve discomfort caused by high temperatures, such as dizziness and nausea.
3. Stimulates Appetite: The drink can stimulate the secretion of saliva and gastric juices, enhancing appetite and helping to improve loss of appetite commonly experienced during summer.
4. Aids Digestion: Rich in organic acids, sour plum drink promotes gastric acid secretion, thereby improving food digestion and absorption. It can help alleviate poor appetite and indigestion.
5. Combats Fatigue: Sour plum drink is highly nutritious and can inhibit lactic acid buildup, thus reducing fatigue. It may provide some relief for individuals who frequently stay up late, consume alcohol, or suffer from motion sickness.
II. Drawbacks
1. Dental Problems: Sour plum drink contains high levels of sugar and acidic components. Excessive consumption may erode tooth enamel, promote bacterial growth in the mouth, damage teeth, and increase the risk of cavities with prolonged, heavy intake.
2. Spleen and Stomach Damage: Drinking too much sour plum drink may impair the spleen and stomach, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other discomforts. As cold beverages are more likely to negatively affect digestive health during hot weather, overconsumption should be avoided.
3. Elevated Blood Sugar: Large amounts of sugar are typically added during preparation. Consuming excessive quantities at once may cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels.
4. Increases Internal Dampness: Sour plum drink is considered a cooling beverage. Drinking large amounts may exacerbate internal dampness, resulting in symptoms such as heaviness in the limbs, soreness, and aching in the extremities.
5. Increased Gastric Acid: The drink stimulates gastric acid secretion, which may lead to excess stomach acid, weakened digestive function, and even gastrointestinal ulcers in severe cases.
Due to its cold and cooling nature, sour plum drink should be consumed cautiously by children, women during menstruation, and individuals with yang deficiency. Consumption should be moderate; avoid drinking large amounts at once to prevent adverse physical reactions.
