What are the functions and effects of soft-shelled turtle?

Nov 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, soft-shelled turtle has functions including nourishing the body, clearing heat and detoxifying, tonifying the liver and kidneys, promoting metabolism, and improving skin appearance. Soft-shelled turtle is suitable for stewing or making soup, with a delicious taste and rich nutrition. It should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive intake that may cause cold-related discomfort. Pregnant women and individuals with spleen-stomach deficiency cold should consult a physician before consumption.

Generally, soft-shelled turtle has various health benefits, including nourishing the body, strengthening physical fitness, clearing heat and detoxifying, tonifying the liver and kidneys, promoting metabolism, and improving skin beauty. Specific details are as follows:

1. Nourishing and Strengthening the Body

Soft-shelled turtle is rich in protein, collagen, and other nutrients. Regular consumption helps enhance physical strength and replenish essential nutrients, making it suitable for individuals with weak constitutions or those recovering from illness.

2. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying

Soft-shelled turtle is of cold nature and possesses certain properties to clear internal heat and detoxify. It can help regulate excessive internal heat and alleviate skin issues or symptoms caused by heat toxicity or "fire excess" (a traditional Chinese medicine concept).

3. Tonifying the Liver and Kidneys

Soft-shelled turtle has a beneficial effect on the liver and kidneys, making it useful for conditions caused by deficiency of liver and kidney functions, such as lower back and knee weakness, dizziness, and blurred vision. It is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine调理 (regulation/treatment).

4. Promoting Metabolism

Rich in amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, selenium, and other components, soft-shelled turtle helps promote metabolic processes in the body and aids in eliminating waste and toxins.

5. Beauty and Skin Nourishment

Soft-shelled turtle contains abundant vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties that help boost immune function and improve skin radiance.

Soft-shelled turtle is best prepared by stewing or making soups, offering delicious flavor and high nutritional value. However, consumption should be moderate to avoid discomfort due to its cooling nature. Pregnant women and individuals with spleen-stomach deficiency and cold constitution should consult a doctor before consuming.

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Can soft-shelled turtle be eaten with cucumber?

Generally speaking, soft-shelled turtle can be eaten together with cucumber, but it should be consumed in moderation to avoid adverse reactions from excessive intake. This combination does not cause negative interactions, and when consumed appropriately, the two foods can complement each other, providing more comprehensive nutrition. However, overconsumption may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

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Can turtle oil be eaten?

In general, turtle oil is usually edible, but intake should be controlled. The oil extracted from turtle also contains abundant nutrients, and moderate consumption can help strengthen the body, enhance immunity and resistance. However, it should be noted that turtle is considered a cold-natured food in traditional terms, and its rendered oil also has cooling properties. Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

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Can you eat the kidneys of a turtle?

Generally speaking, turtle kidneys are edible. However, they should not be consumed in excess. Turtle kidneys contain relatively high levels of uric acid and lead; excessive intake may lead to accumulation of urate and trigger health problems such as gout. Moreover, turtle kidneys are quite rich and greasy, and people with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold may easily suffer gastric discomfort after consumption, possibly resulting in indigestion or loss of appetite.