Chinese Experts Warn Against Overconsumption of Tangyuan During Lantern Festival

Tangyuan, a traditional Chinese dessert, has become a popular dish during the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the lunar calendar. However, experts have expressed concerns regarding the high sugar and fat content of tangyuan, suggesting that people should avoid consuming them in the morning and evening to maintain a healthy balance in their bodies.

According to a recent report in Health News, eating tangyuan is a significant custom during the Lantern Festival, with various creative fillings becoming the stars of the dining table. Zhang Xiaoxu, the director of the Medical Department at the Tianjin Municipal Health Commission, warned that although tangyuan is delicious, its sugar and fat content is high, and even sugar-free tangyuan is not entirely "sugar-free."

The aforementioned report also stated that, in recent years, the range of tangyuan fillings has expanded as people's tastes have become more diverse. Some of the more unique fillings mentioned include durian, chicken excrement, raw meat, and bacon. These exotic options have raised questions about whether tangyuan should be considered a main course or a dessert.

Zhang Xiaoxu emphasized that tangyuan is primarily made from glutinous rice flour and sugar, with the glutinous rice flour used to make the outer skin containing a high amount of starch. Traditional black sesame-filled tangyuan, for example, has approximately 2.63 grams of fat per serving, while the recommended daily intake of oil per person is 25 to 30 grams. As such, consuming nine tangyuan balls could easily meet an individual's daily oil intake.

Furthermore, Zhang Xiaoxu noted that the oil content in tangyuan remains high even in sugar-free varieties, which use maltitol instead of sugar. Since glutinous rice is classified as a high glycemic index food, people with diabetes and high cholesterol levels should be particularly careful about their tangyuan consumption.

To maintain a healthy diet, Zhang Xiaoxu recommended reducing staple food intake when eating tangyuan. In general, three tangyuan balls are equivalent to one ladle of rice. Therefore, it is essential not to overindulge and enjoy the dessert in moderation during the festival. It is also advisable to consume greens, mushrooms, and bean products before eating tangyuan to help with digestion.

In terms of when to eat tangyuan, Zhang Xiaoxu suggested avoiding consumption early in the morning or late at night. The body's digestive system is not yet fully activated in the morning, and metabolism slows down as one approaches bedtime in the evening. Eating tangyuan during these times can put undue stress on the body. Additionally, it is best to consume the dessert soon after preparation, as it is easier to digest, and individuals should try to avoid fried or oily cooking methods to prevent excessive oil intake.

Despite the expert advice, some Weibo users remain critical of the recommendations, arguing that professionals should refrain from offering unsolicited advice. Nonetheless, the health concerns surrounding tangyuan consumption continue to be a topic of discussion among social media users.

In conclusion, the popularity of tangyuan during the Lantern Festival highlights its significance in Chinese culture and tradition. While moderation is key to enjoying the dessert without compromising one's health, it is essential to be mindful of the sugar and fat content in the various fillings and cooking methods. As the Lantern Festival approaches, it is crucial to strike a balance between indulging in the festive treats and maintaining a healthy diet.