Best to Eat Glutinous Rice in Winter
Glutinous rice, also called “river rice,” is a type of rice commonly used for zongzi or porridge. Traditional Chinese medicine considers it sweet in flavor and warm in nature, capable of nourishing vital energy. After consumption, it generates warmth throughout the body, providing cold protection and nourishment—ideal for winter consumption.
The primary function of glutinous rice is to warm and supplement the spleen and stomach. Thus, people with spleen and stomach Qi deficiency who frequently suffer diarrhea can benefit significantly. Additionally, it alleviates symptoms caused by Qi deficiency such as night sweats, lumbar-sacral heaviness during pregnancy, and shortness of breath after labor. Ancient texts like *Commentary on the Classic of Materia Medica* state: “Glutinous rice is a grain that nourishes the spleen and lungs, strengthens Qi. When spleen and stomach are strengthened, the middle burner (stomach area) warms naturally, bowel movements become firm. Warmth nourishes Qi, smooth Qi leads to increased body heat—suitable for those with spleen and lung deficiency and cold.”
Here are several ways to consume glutinous rice for different winter ailments:
- For stomach pain due to Yang deficiency: cook glutinous rice and red dates together into porridge.
- For spleen and stomach weakness, bloating, fatigue, and lethargy: cook glutinous rice with lotus seeds, large dates, and yam, add sugar after cooking.
- For diarrhea and indigestion due to spleen and stomach deficiency: boil glutinous rice wine, then add eggs and cook until done.
Due to its sticky texture and difficulty in digestion, glutinous rice should be consumed in moderation. Children should preferably avoid it.