Mid-Autumn Festival Food: What to indulge in/ Eat in Moderation
Happy Mid-Autumn Festival from the Renaza team! How are you celebrating today?
Before you tuck into all the Mid-Autumn festival treats, here’s how to indulge this festive season without overdoing it.
Mooncakes
What would Mid-Autumn Festival be without mooncakes? Whether you prefer traditional or snowskin mooncakes, there is something for everyone! Of course, like most festive treats, mooncakes are typically sweet, on the unhealthy side, and contain lots of calories.
This does not mean that you should skip mooncakes altogether- after all, you indulge in them only once a year.
Opt for versions with reduced sugar, or reduce the amount of double-yolk mooncakes you consume. We recommend consuming a little bit of every flavour in smaller portions- after all, the festive season is all about sharing food and enjoying the company of your loved ones!
It is said that sharing the round mooncake among your family members signifies completeness and unity.
Pair these mooncakes with a pot of Chinese tea of your choice, to reduce the sweet/ cloying taste.
Hairy Crabs
Hairy crabs are usually said to be ‘in season’ around September to October, as this is when the crabs get ready to lay their eggs. Many consume hairy crabs for the ‘roe’, making them the most delicious during this period and eventually becoming a common festive food!
Like most crustaceans, hairy crabs are very high in cholesterol. Consuming even just one crab will take you close to the daily recommended cholesterol limit for an adult! It is generally recommended to stick to consuming 1-2 crabs.
Individuals suffering from heart-related illnesses or who already have high cholesterol should skip this festive food altogether.
Lotus Root
Lotus roots are typically harvested during this time, and can be prepared in many ways, salty, sweet, deep-fried or stewed depending on your preference. Chinese people often use the lotus root to describe the bond between couples, as the fibre of the lotus root remains connected even when sliced.
Lotus root is a healthy source of carbohydrates and is low in fat and sugar, but has a naturally sweet taste. In addition, it is full of important vitamins, minerals, and a high source of fibre! Health benefits of eating lotus root includes reducing cholesterol levels, improves digestion, reduces blood pressure and also helps to boost immunity.
Have this delicious vegetable prepared in all kinds of ways- it’s great for you!
Pomelo
Now, this is one food that we can definitely get behind! 😍
Pomelo is particularly rich in vitamin C and potassium, and contains several other vitamins and minerals, protein, and fibre. It has a high antioxidant content that can help reduce skin damage, promoting a youthful appearance.
Studies have also shown that it can help with weight loss, reducing blood fat, improving heart health, and aiding digestion.
Roast Duck
It’s a bit of a toss-up on this one- duck is generally recommended as a healthy choice, with lots of protein and good fat content, as well as micronutrients like selenium, iron, and niacin.
However, those with high cholesterol may wish to reduce their portion size, or remove the skin of the roast duck before consumption.
