Whether it is steamed, poached, stir-fried, or deep-fried, carp always is a delicacy in Chinese families who just can’t resist its thick and tender meat. However, some people, especially pregnant women and new mothers, just have one more reason to enjoy carp—its rich medicinal values.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), carp has a mild flavor and is “neutral in nature,” which in general can harmonize and neutralize our body by strengthening spleen/stomach and nourishing “Qi” (essential energy). In fact, carp’s medicinal values such as to nourish liver, replenish kidneys, enrich blood, and modulate “Qi” were recorded even in the first Chinese TCM classic and was named “King of the Fishes.” Indeed, when you learn about the nutrition facts of carp, you will find it’s very true to this honorable name.
Carp is very high in protein and an excellent source of potassium, selenium, Vitamin B12 and E. It also is a good source of magnesium and Omega-3 fatty acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid that reportedly can help prevent heart disease because it lowers triglycerides, reduces blood clotting and blood pressure, and prevents arrhythmias.
It seems that carp is good to everyone. So, why are pregnant women and new mothers in particular love it? As indicated by TCM Practitioners, carp is very effective in easing edema during pregnancy by dispersing fluid in body tissues (promoting urination). And for new mothers, carp simply can help them to improve milk quantity for breastfeeding.
Carp always is praised for its nutritional and medicinal values. Yet, if you also believe that eating fabulous will help in making people appreciate food even more, don’t miss this one: Azuki Bean Carp Soup.
Image by jrwi
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