EAT FOR THE SEASONS | SUMMER | THE PRINCIPLES OF TCM EATING IN THE HEAT
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), food can be used therapeutically just like herbs. This can be very beneficial for maintaining health when foods are eaten according to the season.
If you are going to eat cold temperature foods such as ice cream or ice cold drinks, summer is the time when you system can cope best with these. Too much however can actually put pressure on your Spleen and Stomach system causing digestive issues. Therefore, it is ideal to also eat some foods that promote sweating to cool your internal temperature. Some such foods are chilli/pungent spices or internal cooling foods including goji berries, pineapple, strawberries, mango and watermelon.
It is also very easy to over eat during Christmas. After eating this much food, it is difficult for your system to work adequately under the strain of digesting such a large amount of food; usually rich food. It is important therefore to eat light, easily digestible foods after a big holiday blowout. Things like freshly squeezed juices, fruits and fresh vegetables are both kind on the system and delicious! Remember, balance is key!
General vitamin rich green fruits and vegetables are good year round and lemon juice on your green veggies and meat helps iron and protein absorption as well as tasting great.
Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water!
“The energy of the sky merges with the energy of the Earth during the summer, thus yang (“hot”) energy grows rapidly in the universe while yin (“cold”) energy diminishes.” Huang Di Nei Jing (Medical Classic of the Yellow Emperor)
Image via sipsandspoonfuls.com
Have you booked your pre-Christmas appointment in yet?
www.morningtonchinesemedicine.com.au