5 unique Asian eating habits for a healthy life

1. Drinking hot tea with meals

Whereas we often drink water or soft drinks with our meals, many Asians opt for hot tea. Green tea and oolong tea are especially popular. The idea is that hot drinks aid digestion and help the body detoxify. According to traditional beliefs, drinking cold beverages has a negative effect on your stomach and intestines.

2. Fermented foods for a healthy gut

Kimchi (Korea), miso (Japan) and tempeh (Indonesia) are fermented products that are a regular part of the menu. These foods are full of probiotics, which are good for your intestinal flora and your immune system. The fermentation process also makes certain nutrients more absorbable, which means your body benefits more from them.

3. Eating chicken feet as a source of collagen

Chicken feet are considered a delicacy in many Asian countries. In addition to being packed with flavor, they are rich in collagen, which is good for your skin, joints and bones. It may seem strange to us in the West, but it is a common ingredient in countries such as China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand and Korea, where it is often used in soups, stews or steamed dishes.

4. Eating according to the seasons

Asian cuisine often takes the seasons into account. In summer, people eat cooling foods such as cucumber and watermelon, while in winter warming dishes with ginger and cinnamon are served. This stems from traditional Chinese medicine, which states that your body should be in harmony with nature.

5. Soup for breakfast

In countries like Vietnam and China, the day often starts with a bowl of nourishing soup, such as pho (noodle soup) or congee (rice porridge). This gives your stomach a gentle start and provides you with essential nutrients to kick-start your day. The contrast with a cheese sandwich in our country could hardly be greater!