Taiwan is experiencing a sudden arrival of cold weather, leading many people to eat soup dishes such as hot pot. But for certain people, doing so could pose health risks.
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As monsoon winds arrive in Taiwan this week, residents will likely notice two things: a significant drop in temperatures, and large numbers of people enjoying hot pot. Cold weather is hot pot season, leading many people to enjoy warm eating experiences both indoors and outdoors.
But not so fast say doctors like cardiologist at Taiwan Adventist Hospital Lin Wei-wen (林謂文). Lin says that high-sodium foods like hot pot can cause cardiovascular problems such as heart arrhythmias, hyperkalemia, and hypernatremia, especially among the elderly.
Lin says those with high blood pressure or blood sugar, kidney disease, and hypertension are among those who should avoid the tempting dish.
Doctors also say it's important to stay warm when temperatures drop suddenly, and another cold front is expected to arrive in Taiwan on Thursday. One elderly hospital patient says he’s already keeping his coat with him and doesn’t dare wear short sleeves in this weather.
Dr. Lin says that when cold weather arrives in Taiwan, he sees a 20-30% jump in cases of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular issues among those with high blood pressure. He says people in this group should seek immediate treatment if their systolic blood pressure exceeds 130.
So if you’re planning a family dinner in the upcoming cold weather, and want to include a member with high blood pressure, perhaps you should ask whether or not you really want to eat hot pot.