Soong Mei-ling, an emblematic figure of 20th-century China and the esteemed wife of President Chiang Kai-shek, not only made her mark as one of the most influential women in modern Chinese history but also astonished the world by living until the age of 106. Stricken with cancer at the tender age of 40, her journey to the venerable age of 106, passing away in 2003, has left many in awe.
Her secrets to a long and healthy life have garnered widespread interest, blending a disciplined lifestyle with a meticulous diet. She showcased the age-old wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the importance of daily routines and diet in maintaining health and longevity.
Navigating daily routines and diet to triumph over cancer and preserve longevity
Soong Mei-ling’s lifestyle was the embodiment of discipline and simplicity. She adhered to a regular daily schedule, emphasizing the importance of sufficient rest by going to bed around 11 p.m. and rising at 9 a.m. Her days were enriched with intellectual and creative pursuits, such as painting and reading, though she wisely limited these activities to no more than two hours each day.
Her diet was noteworthy for its moderation and the special place she reserved for fruits like lychees, pineapples, and kiwis. Begin every morning with a refreshing glass of lemon water became a ritual, while she consciously avoided foods that were unhygienic or overly exotic.
A deep dive into Soong Mei-ling’s favored vegetables
Soong placed significant emphasis on her dietary choices, favoring vegetables like spinach and celery, which are staples in the world of nutritious and health-boosting foods.
Celery: A superfood in traditional Chinese medicine
Celery, a common but incredibly nutritious vegetable, found a special place in Soong Mei-ling’s diet. Renowned not only for its affordability and ease of cultivation, but also for its rich nutritional profile — boasting proteins, carotene, carbohydrates, B vitamins, and more — celery is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine.
It is believed to nourish the liver, clear heat, detoxify, moisten the lungs, relieve coughs, lower blood pressure, and strengthen both the stomach and blood. Regular consumption of celery, especially its leaves, is associated with preventing high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and neurasthenia.
Moreover, its high dietary fiber content aids in cleansing blood lipid waste, reducing cardiovascular blockages, and preventing colon cancer by minimizing the contact time between carcinogens and the intestinal mucosa.
Spinach: A pillar of health and nutritional excellence
Spinach, another cornerstone of Soong Mei-ling’s diet, is revered for its rich protein content, vitamin B2, iron, phosphorus, and calcium.
Particularly beneficial for children, patients with chronic diseases, and those with renal insufficiency, spinach supports stomach and pancreas function, protects eyesight, prevents aging, and enhances brain functionality.
As recorded in the Chinese medical classic Outline of the Materia Medica, regular intake of spinach helps unblock blood vessels, unclog the chest, regulate the digestive system, quench thirst, and remove heat and toxins from the body. Its sweet and cool nature improves blood quality, prevents constipation, and fosters a radiant complexion.
Interestingly, consuming spinach alongside other antioxidant-rich foods like tomatoes and carrots can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Embracing longevity through simple, nutritious choices
Soong Mei-ling’s remarkable journey through cancer to the ripe age of 106 illuminates the profound impact of integrating simple, nutritious foods into one’s diet.
The inclusion of vegetables, such as celery and spinach, both celebrated in traditional Chinese medicine for their health benefits, played a significant role in her longevity. This timeless wisdom encourages us to incorporate these nutrient-rich vegetables into our daily meals, harnessing their potential to bolster our health and well-being.
In today’s fast-paced world, Soong Mei-ling’s approach to health and longevity serves as a compelling reminder of the power of simplicity, discipline, and traditional wisdom in achieving a healthy and fulfilling life. As we navigate our own health journeys, embracing these principles can guide us toward greater vitality and resilience against diseases.
Translation by Audrej Wang
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