Chinese Medicine Practitioner Warns Against Overeating Instant Noodles During Typhoons
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Chinese medicine practitioner advises limiting instant noodle consumption during typhoons, as excessive intake can lead to dampness and phlegm accumulation.
- While some instant noodles contain traditional Chinese medicinal spices, their high oil, salt, and refined carbohydrate content can negatively impact digestion and cause symptoms like fatigue and bloating.
- To make instant noodles healthier, it's recommended to reduce the soup and oil packets, add vegetables and protein, and engage in light physical activity afterward to aid circulation and reduce dampness.
During Typhoon Barway, many people turn to instant noodles when fresh ingredients run out. Chinese medicine practitioner Wang Dayuan notes that while some instant noodles incorporate medicinal spices like angelica and ginger, which can warm the body and improve circulation, excessive consumption is ill-advised.
Wang explains that instant noodles are processed foods high in oil, salt, and refined carbohydrates. Eating too many can "help dampness generate phlegm," leading to symptoms such as fatigue, heavy-headedness, indigestion, and dry mouth. He advises that occasional consumption is fine, but continuous intake for several days should be avoided.
instant noodles are high oil, high salt, refined carbohydrate processed foods, and excessive consumption can easily help dampness generate phlegm.
Typhoon seasons are naturally damp, and reduced activity can further impair the spleen and stomach's digestive functions. For those who choose to eat instant noodles, Wang suggests using less of the soup and oil packets. Adding vegetables, mushrooms, eggs, or tofu can create a more balanced meal. He also recommends light exercise, like stretching or slow jogging, after eating to promote circulation and reduce dampness, rather than lying down to watch shows.
instant noodles are fine to eat occasionally, but do not eat them for several consecutive days.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.