How Japanese ingredients keep us healthy and energized in summer

The intense heat continues, and many people may struggle with a reduced appetite, often opting for food that goes down smoothly. Wheat flour and buckwheat noodles are popular among the Japanese. These options can be satisfying and easier on our stomachs.

However, there is a problem: mineral deficiency. Minerals are essential for living, but these carbohydrate foods are not rich in minerals. This issue becomes particularly concerning in the summer when we lose a significant amount of minerals through excessive sweating.

What are the signs of mineral deficiency in our bodies?

There are some red flags that indicate mineral deficiencies. For example, leg cramps are often closely associated with excessive sweating and a lack of essential minerals in our bodies. Muscle tension and relaxation do not function well if there is a lack of some essential minerals, for instance, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. This can lead to irritability and anxiety, which are mainly caused by insufficient levels of magnesium.

In terms of women’s health, hormones are sensitive to a lack of zinc, selenium and copper, making these deficiencies particularly correlated with irregular periods and period pains. Among the three, attention should be paid to zinc deficiency. The deficiency disrupts the production of female hormones and triggers menstrual-related issues, such as immature ovaries, delayed ovulation and early shedding of uterus lining.

How to properly supplement minerals

Some ingredients traditionally used in Japanese foods for many decades contain a variety of minerals. A key is to consciously add small amounts of mineral-rich ingredients to each meal. Here are some simple daily practices: making rice with millet, choosing rye or millet bread, and switching from refined sugar to raw sugar.

Mineral-rich ingredients rooted in Japanese cuisine

In addition to these examples, there are other practices we can incorporate into our daily lives. Legumes, seaweed and sesame seeds (grounded is recommended for better mineral absorption) are primary sources of minerals. They can be easily incorporated by mixing with rice, topping salads and adding to soups. In particular, seaweed is a powerful source to boost mineral absorption when consumed with proteins. Dried daikon radish strips are another mineral-rich ingredient. The dried vegetable is rich in iron, copper, zinc and vitamin B, which help produce proper amounts of blood and protect against anemia.

Furthermore, this nutrient-dense ingredient, high in fiber and calcium, addresses our stomach dysfunction and inflammation, which are symptoms of discomfort caused by intense heat. Another beloved item among the Japanese, pickled plum (known as “umeboshi”), can be a lifesaver, as it is rich in vitamins, calcium, potassium and iron. Its citric acid not only improves mineral absorbance but also eases fatigue.

Conscious eating is a key to harnessing our health

As stated above, there are simple yet effective ways to keep you healthy, even during a season when maintaining mineral and nutrient levels can be challenging. Most importantly, we should utilize mineral-rich ingredients found in Japan and incorporate them into every meal. Are you ready to take the first step towards healing and enriching your body today?