What should not be eaten with beef?
Disease description:
I understand that in general, people like to eat beef to replenish their strength. Beef can nourish the stomach and spleen and strengthen the body, making it indeed a very nutritious food. However, beef is not suitable to be consumed with certain foods. So, what foods should not be eaten with beef?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
There are several categories of foods that are not suitable to consume with beef:
- Foods rich in tannic acid: such as tea and persimmons. Tannic acid can combine with proteins in beef to form substances that are difficult to digest, potentially causing indigestion, bloating, and other symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended not to drink tea immediately or consume large amounts of tannic acid-containing foods around the time of beef consumption.
- High-fiber foods: such as whole grains, celery, and bamboo shoots. Although high-fiber foods are generally beneficial for health, consuming them with beef may increase the gastrointestinal burden, especially for individuals with weaker digestive systems, potentially leading to indigestion or gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Foods rich in oxalic acid: such as spinach and beets. Oxalic acid can combine with calcium in beef to form insoluble calcium oxalate, which not only affects calcium absorption but also may increase the risk of kidney stones.
- Alcohol: Beef is considered warming in nature and should not be consumed with other heat-inducing foods like white liquor (Chinese白酒), as this may intensify internal heat and lead to heatiness (excess internal heat causing symptoms such as sore throat and constipation).
However, this does not mean these foods should be absolutely avoided when eating beef; moderate pairing and a balanced diet are key.
