Group 1 - The article discusses the unique role of bitter flavors in Chinese cuisine and their cultural significance, highlighting the paradox of people both avoiding and embracing bitter foods [3][4][5] - Bitter foods are categorized into four main types: vegetables (e.g., bitter melon), fruits (e.g., grapefruit), beverages or snacks (e.g., coffee, dark chocolate), and medicinal ingredients (e.g., lotus seed heart) [6] - The health benefits of bitter foods include metabolic regulation, antioxidant properties, and digestive health promotion, with specific compounds like caffeine and polyphenols playing key roles [5][6] Group 2 - The article emphasizes the traditional Chinese medicine perspective on bitter flavors, categorizing their effects into three main functions: drying, purging, and strengthening [7][8] - It suggests that consuming bitter foods can be particularly beneficial in summer or after high-fat meals to help alleviate heat and dampness in the body [9][10] - The article advises on the appropriate consumption of bitter foods based on individual health conditions, seasonal changes, and regional climates, stressing the importance of moderation [10][12]