Dandelion Water, Drinking Right for Health: Aunt Zhou's Health EnlightenmentAunt Zhou became worried, "Oh, Dr. Wang, will it be alright if I drink it every day?" Dr
Dandelion Water, Drinking Right for Health: Aunt Zhou's Health Enlightenment
Aunt Zhou, a retired worker in Nankai District, Tianjin, enjoys researching health remedies. For the past two years, she's been hooked on dandelion water, having a cup before every meal, believing the herb can clear heat, detoxify, and enhance beauty. However, this seemingly healthy habit hides some risks.
After a physical exam, Aunt Zhou's doctor, Dr. Wang, questioned, "Aunt Zhou, how long have you been drinking dandelion water?" "For about two years now, every day," Aunt Zhou smiled and replied, "I feel great drinking dandelion water, it relieves heat and I feel my appetite has improved a lot." Dr. Wang looked concerned, pointing to Aunt Zhou's medical report, "Indeed, dandelion has good effects in clearing heat, detoxifying, and reducing swelling. However, Aunt Zhou, you should be aware that long-term, excessive consumption can have side effects."
Aunt Zhou became worried, "Oh, Dr. Wang, will it be alright if I drink it every day?" Dr. Wang patiently explained, "You see, while dandelion is beneficial, it's still a medicine, following the concept of 'food as medicine'. Long-term, large intake of dandelion may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, especially on an empty stomach, easily leading to stomach pain, excessive stomach acid, etc. More importantly, dandelion has a diuretic effect, which can lead to electrolyte imbalance, especially potassium loss, if consumed for a long time."
Aunt Zhou was stunned, "Oh my goodness, I didn't know that, can I still continue drinking it?" Dr. Wang smiled, gently shaking his head, "You can drink it, but don't overdo it, especially not on an empty stomach. See, your stomach has high acidity when empty, and drinking dandelion water or other herbal teas at this time can easily irritate the stomach lining, which isn't good for your stomach." Aunt Zhou realized, "Oh, that's bad, my stomach hasn't been very good."
"So, should I change the time I drink dandelion water to after meals?" Aunt Zhou scratched her head and asked. Dr. Wang nodded, "Yes, drinking it after meals is much better, but more importantly, you need to moderate your intake. Just drink it once or twice a day, don't overdo it. The body needs balance, not large amounts of a single thing. No matter how good something is, if used incorrectly, it can harm the body."
Aunt Zhou now understood, "Right, it seems I need to change this habit. Are there any other medications that should be taken after meals?" Dr. Wang smiled, "Of course, for example, common blood pressure medications, lipid-lowering medications, and even some painkillers are recommended to be taken after meals."
Aunt Zhou nodded as she listened, "I'll listen to your advice from now on, adjust my habits and stop drinking it randomly." Dr. Wang gently patted Aunt Zhou's hand, laughing, "Actually, many people are like you, hearing about the benefits of something and immediately trying it on themselves, but neglecting the dosage and timing. You said dandelion water is good, it is, but drinking it for two years, every day before meals, your stomach would have problems if it didn't."
Aunt Zhou laughed sheepishly, "Oh, I just wanted convenience, hearing about the benefits so I immediately tried it, didn't know there were so many details involved." Dr. Wang nodded, "Yes, at our age, we need to pay more attention to the regularity of diet and medication. Besides, although dandelion is good, you can't expect it to solve all problems. Eating a little of everything, drinking a little of everything, that's what's truly good for the body."
Aunt Zhou was convinced, "You're right, Dr. Wang, I need to listen to your advice more from now on, and stop figuring things out myself." Dr. Wang laughed, "That's right, come ask me anytime if you have any questions, I'm here for you old friends 24/7."
The two chatted happily, and after returning home, Aunt Zhou re-examined her 'health remedies'. She started changing her habits, reducing her dandelion water intake, adjusting her medication time, and even paying more attention to dietary diversity. A few months later, when Aunt Zhou went back to the hospital for a checkup, her health had improved significantly, and her stomach stopped bothering her.
Seeing her report, Dr. Wang said with satisfaction, "Aunt Zhou, you've found the right method this time, keep it up and you'll get healthier."
Dr. Wang waved his hand, "Health is your own responsibility, we doctors can only give advice, the key is you need to be attentive yourself."
Aunt Zhou nodded, understanding that health is indeed a responsibility she needs to take seriously. She also finally realized that every little detail in life could potentially affect her health. Mastering these details was the key to her longevity and health.
The story ends here, Aunt Zhou not only recovered her health but also shared this newfound health secret with her friends. And it was the greatest wisdom she learned from this little dandelion water: there are no shortcuts to health, only science and moderation.
What are your thoughts on drinking dandelion water? Welcome to discuss in the comments!
References
[1] Li Cunfeng. An Exploration of Dietary Nutrition and Health for the Elderly Population, Food Safety Guide, 2024-04-05
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