Early Autumn and Tonic Supplementation
Why start tonics early in autumn? Because after enduring the scorching summer, the body experiences significant depletion, leading to relative nutrient deficiency, causing symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and reduced appetite—indicative of physical weakness. Thus, it becomes necessary to nourish the body during this time.
According to the traditional Chinese medical principle of "tonify when deficient," early autumn supplementation actively supports recovery of vitality and enhances disease resistance.
Autumn supplementation should begin with regulating the spleen and stomach. After a long, hot summer, frequent consumption of cold drinks and frozen foods often weakens spleen and stomach function, especially in physically weak individuals. Sudden intake of tonics or supplements may lead to poor digestion and absorption. Therefore, before autumn supplementation, the spleen and stomach need a period of adjustment and adaptation. Initially, one should consume easily digestible, nutrient-rich foods to regulate spleen and stomach function, such as fish, lean meats from various animals, eggs, and ingredients like yam, jujubes, and lotus root. Additionally, dairy products, legumes, fresh vegetables, and fruits should be consumed more frequently. Aquatic plants like water chestnuts and chestnuts are also excellent for spleen and stomach regulation, containing carbohydrates, proteins, and various vitamins, with functions including tonifying the middle energizer, stimulating appetite, quenching thirst, strengthening the kidneys, and nourishing essence.
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