1. Japanese Sushi
Sushi is made from a special type of sticky rice originating from Japan. This rice contains very little fat (which diet teams love), no sodium, and a large amount of complex carbohydrates. Therefore, it can provide the body with a rich source of energy. Additionally, other fresh ingredients in sushi such as fish, shrimp, seafood... are also a plentiful and healthy source of protein and energy for the body (which diet teams also love). These are energy-rich and Omega-3-rich foods but contain very little fat.
Inside the seaweed (a common ingredient in Japanese sushi rice), there are many vitamins such as vitamin A, B complex, vitamin C... In addition, the vegetables and roots in this dish are also a diverse and good source of vitamins for the body. Therefore, sushi is not only beneficial for health, good for digestion but also very good for the complexion. According to many culinary experts, sushi is a very ideal dish in terms of nutrition, healthiness, and digestibility. The reason is that the ingredients used to make this dish are very fresh, not soaked in spices or harmful additives for health.


2. Oats
Oats originate from plants. Oats consist of oat grains (commonly used as food), leaves and stems (oat straw), and bran (the outer layer of oat grains). Oat leaves, stems, and bran are often used as medicine. Oats are commonly known as a super grain. With high fiber content, rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, oats are especially beneficial for digestion, immune system, and nutrient metabolism processes in the body.
Oats are mainly consumed as porridge. They are also an ingredient in cereals and baked goods. In recent years, oats have become quite popular in diets due to their excellent nutritional values. Eating oats helps prevent heart disease, control blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of cancer, and promote skin health. Oats contain a lot of vitamin E, B6, B5, as well as minerals like iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper. They are one of the richest fiber-rich grains and are highly nutritious.


3. Various Spices
Nowadays, dishes with a variety of spices are beloved worldwide. It's impossible to quantify the amount of spices used to enhance the flavor of dishes. Various spices used in daily meals not only add delicious aroma to the food but also offer many health benefits. The first type of spice to mention is chili, which is not only a common seasoning in dishes but also has medicinal properties. Chili is used as a spice and food because it contains a lot of vitamin A, vitamin C, 5 - 10 times more than tomatoes and carrots. The spicy component in chili called capsaicin has medicinal properties that are widely used in medicine.
Turmeric is also a spice you should use during Tet holidays. In addition to adding color, aroma, and removing fishy smells from dishes, turmeric contains curcumin with excellent natural anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric will alleviate joint pain and bone degeneration in the elderly. Curcumin in turmeric has the ability to alleviate pain caused by inflammatory joint diseases. Turmeric also has effects on some diseases such as colitis, cancer, and low-level joint inflammation. Moreover, using turmeric regularly in daily meals will help enhance memory, reduce pain, and contribute to inhibiting cancer-causing cells in the intestines. Additionally, during Tet, you should also use other spices like garlic, onions, black pepper...


4. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a delicious and nutritious beverage that helps alleviate pain, promote better sleep, fight colds, aid digestion, and many other common ailments you should indulge in every Tet holiday. Peppermint tea impacts the balance of hormones in the body. There are countless different hormones that influence your mood, behavior, and daily energy. And drinking peppermint tea has been shown to regulate and balance hormones. Free radicals are the main cause of chronic diseases in the body. For example, the cause of cancer is mainly due to free radicals stimulating cell mutations. The presence of antioxidants in peppermint tea can eliminate these free radicals and enhance health.
Peppermint oil has strong antibacterial properties. These antibacterial agents can fight off bacteria attacking the immune system. To promote a healthy immune system, peppermint tea is a fantastic beverage. Peppermint tea contains limonene that can counteract the negative effects of free radicals and enhance nerve transmission activity in the body. This helps improve memory, focus, and concentration. Peppermint tea's anti-inflammatory effects can make the stomach more comfortable, thus reducing nausea or abdominal pain. It soothes the stomach lining by optimizing your digestion; it also enhances nutrient absorption and eliminates indigestion, constipation, and bloating. Peppermint tea can also prevent other digestive conditions.


5. Red Wine
Red wine boasts a rich and ancient history, captivating and considered an age-old libation. Red wine is made from various types of black grapes, and the color of red wine ranges from purple to brick red and brown. Red wine is simply made by fermenting dark-colored grapes, rich in antioxidant properties. Red wine has several benefits including anti-aging, immune system enhancement, and heart health. Grapes contain numerous antioxidants such as resveratrol, catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidin. These antioxidants help reduce the risk of heart disease and combat free radical damage.
Red wine contains numerous polyphenols including tannin, resveratrol, and about 5,000 plant compounds. The benefits of red wine stem from tannins, also found in chocolate and green tea. Tannins inhibit cholesterol that tends to clog arteries, thus promoting heart health. Although it's quite challenging to understand which red wine is best for health, health experts recommend choosing red wine with lower alcohol content and higher tannins. Red wine encompasses antioxidants with anticancer properties and heart-protective effects. Red wine is made from grapes and grape skins rich in antioxidants, capable of preventing all types of cancers. Therefore, red wine is also a beverage you should indulge in on every Lunar New Year occasion.


6. Garden Salad
According to nutrition experts, supplementing potassium, fiber, and reducing salt in your diet will greatly benefit your health. Garden salad is considered the best dish providing ample potassium and fiber, not only good for cardiovascular health but also capable of reducing high blood pressure, helping limit fat absorption into the body, and effectively losing weight. Weight loss salad is always a popular choice for its beneficial properties. In addition to helping the body lose weight, salad is also an easily prepared and diverse food. Salad is also a rich source of nutrients such as vitamins C and E, fiber, for the body.
Many fats accumulate over time, so receiving foods rich in Omega-3 will make the body more comfortable. Omega-3 is abundant in cereals, seeds commonly added in the salad-making process. Omega-3 is also abundant in avocados or purple cabbages. Mixing these foods together provides a nutritious meal that refreshes the brain, reduces stress without worrying about weight gain. In most garden salads, green leafy vegetables containing plenty of folic acid and fiber to protect and enhance cardiovascular health. In addition, folic acid also functions to increase red blood cell count, reducing anemia and preventing cardiovascular diseases. You should use dark green leafy vegetables rich in potassium and Maggie will improve blood pressure. Salad is a type of food containing high levels of good fiber for cardiovascular health, avoiding the risk of stroke.


7. Tofu
During traditional Tet celebrations, we often indulge in chicken, banh chung, sausage, fried spring rolls... and if you're tired of those dishes, add some tofu to your Tet meal menu for a change of taste. Tofu contains high levels of protein, calcium, vitamin E, no cholesterol, and low carbohydrates, which can provide certain health benefits. According to The Health Site, made from soybeans, tofu containing isoflavones reduces levels of bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein in the body, thereby enhancing cardiovascular health.
Tofu is a rich source of selenium, an essential mineral for the body to help the antioxidant system function properly, thereby preventing colon cancer. Soybean products reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics. In addition, according to many studies, consuming at least 10 mg of soybeans per day can reduce the recurrence of breast cancer by 25%. Tofu is rich in calcium, very beneficial for women during menopause when there is an imbalance of estrogen levels in the body. One benefit of eating tofu regularly is significantly slowing down the aging process. Tofu helps maintain skin elasticity, firm facial muscles, thereby preventing aging. In addition to eating tofu, you can also make a tofu face mask, which effectively nourishes the skin.


8. Yogurt
Yogurt is the 'golden food' for digestion and plays a crucial role in boosting your immune system during Tet. Not only is it rich in calcium, but yogurt is also a protein powerhouse, offering a range of unexpected health benefits. A cup of yogurt typically contains about 300 grams of calcium. So, if you want to strengthen your bones, yogurt is a wise choice. Incorporate yogurt into your diet. It not only maintains bone density but also enhances their strength. For older adults at risk of osteoporosis, consuming yogurt daily after lunch is a good health choice.
The active ingredients in yogurt will protect your immune system and reduce the risk of various diseases. Probiotics have long been proven to enhance gut health. Yogurt is rich in zinc and various minerals, essential for good health. The benefits of yogurt in preventing gut infections are quite effective. Yogurt contains enzymes that stimulate digestion. So, if you're prone to infections, it's best to increase yogurt in your diet.


9. Fish
Fish seems to be forgotten during the Tet days. Experts advise you to include this dish in your holiday menu. Fish is a valuable source of protein, containing all essential amino acids. Fish fat is rich in vitamins A, D, and various unsaturated fatty acids. Especially, marine fish contain important minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, fluorine, and trace elements (copper, arsenic, cobalt, zinc, iodine...). Fish meat is easier to digest and absorb than meat from other animals. For example, beef and pork are often rich in cholesterol - unhealthy fats. Meanwhile, fish is a type of food that contains only a small amount of unsaturated fat.
Experts also believe that eating fish infrequently leads to weight gain, fatty blood... Protein in fish is easily absorbed, so the stomach does not have to work for hours to digest the amount of fish we eat. On the other hand, fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a special component essential for brain development. That's why many people believe that eating fish makes you smarter. Therefore, this is an extremely healthy and beneficial food. During Tet days, eating fish will bring many benefits and will not make us feel bloated or have difficulty digesting like when eating meat.


10. Chicken Eggs
On Tet days, reduce oily foods and boost your energy with chicken eggs. Chicken eggs are widely consumed in Vietnam, containing many nutrients and are very safe. Chicken eggs are an excellent source of protein, and they also contain many essential amino acids that humans need. In one study, consuming two eggs per day for six weeks increased HDL levels by 10%, which is a fantastic health benefit of eggs.
Lutein and zeaxanthin in eggs are beneficial antioxidants for eye health. Studies have shown that consuming sufficient amounts of these nutrients can significantly reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, two common eye disorders. Additionally, eggs also contain a lot of vitamin A, which is very good for eye health. Combining a low-calorie diet with eating chicken eggs for breakfast will double the effectiveness of weight loss. Moreover, a breakfast with eggs will keep you fuller for longer, providing enough energy for a day of work and reducing the amount of food consumed in a day.


11. Fruits and Vegetables
During Tet, homemakers often stock up on protein-rich foods such as sausage, spring rolls, pork, and various meats while overlooking the importance of vegetables and fruits. In Tet meals, the main source of fiber is often dried bamboo shoots, leading to a deficiency in essential vitamins from fresh fruits. Vegetables and fruits provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals to prevent deficiencies. Vitamin C is abundant in yellow, red, or dark green fruits and vegetables such as red peppers, carrots, tomatoes, mangoes, pumpkin, water spinach, and spring onions.
Green vegetables are rich in folic acid and vitamin K. Various vegetables and beans are high in B vitamins (B1, B2). Vegetables and fruits also contain many alkaline minerals, especially potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which play crucial roles in various bodily functions and are necessary to maintain acid-base balance. They regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and help eliminate cholesterol from the body, thus preventing high blood pressure and arterial plaque. With the advantages of vegetables and fruits, it's advisable to consume them generously and comfortably during Tet meals, rather than focusing solely on meat, fish, and seafood dishes.


12. Assorted Nuts
Nuts are a highly popular type of food, used in all kinds of diets, from ketogenic to vegetarian, or simply as snacks during the Tet holidays. They are rich in healthy fats that are beneficial for human health. Some commonly consumed nuts include cashews, almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and peanuts. Although peanuts belong to the legume family rather than nuts, they are often included in the list of nutritious nuts. Most of these nuts have hard outer shells that need to be removed before consumption. They are high in fats, low in carbs, and provide a wealth of nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium.
These nuts are not only delicious snacks but also have significant health benefits. According to Healthline, cashews are rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting the immune system, improving blood circulation, and reducing the risk of heart disease. Raw cashews are often used in vegetarian dishes, while roasted and salted cashews make delicious snacks, especially during Tet. Sunflower seeds are high in beneficial fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are rich in vitamin E, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for diabetes and heart health.


13. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are low in calories but rich in germanium, vitamin B, which positively impacts metabolism, boosts immunity, and reduces fat accumulation. Firstly, mushrooms protect you as they have strong antibacterial properties and combat viruses. Many traditional antibiotics are derived from mushrooms. Some types of mushrooms are nutritious, strengthen the immune system, and improve certain cancers. Mushrooms are extremely useful in weight management as they are nutrient-dense but calorie stingy.
Mushrooms are especially effective when replacing red meat as they increase energy production in cells. Mushrooms have become a popular food for athletes seeking to increase strength and endurance. Mushrooms promote a healthy heart by improving blood flow, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing platelet aggregation, and combating plaque buildup in arteries. Hence, mushrooms help minimize strokes. The strong anti-inflammatory compounds in mushrooms help protect your kidneys and liver, reduce joint pain, and even support patients with asthma.


14. Ginger Tea
14. Ginger Tea


15. Seaweed
Seaweed is a nutritious food commonly used in the daily meals of Koreans. However, in Vietnam, it is not yet fully understood for its benefits, so it is not used daily. In fact, seaweed has long been a component in functional foods that support digestion. Scientists at Newcastle University have studied alginate, a substance found in brown seaweed, and found that it can enhance mucus in the intestines, thereby protecting the gut lining. Alginate in seaweed also slows down the digestion process, making you feel full longer. Seaweed is also rich in fiber. A study in Japan showed that seaweed increases beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Seaweed absorbs over 90 types of minerals from seawater with low salt content and high calcium. Therefore, seaweed helps reduce blood pressure. For those with high blood pressure, seaweed is a top priority food. An important component of seaweed is fertile clement - which regulates blood circulation, detoxifies, and removes toxins from the body. Nowadays, everyone fears cholesterol-rich foods, the cause of obesity. Therefore, low-calorie but delicious foods like seaweed are highly valued. Families should include seaweed in their Tet menu.


