Nutrition-A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, one of the main aspects of health we look at closely is an individual’s food lifestyle. This is an important for our overall health and sense of well-being. From a Chinese nutritional perspective, we look at many aspects of foods to decide on which ones are best for us. This is based on the yin/yang theory and the TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) diagnosis that we make for an individual. In comparison to a traditional food pyramid recommendation, which is usually based on protein, carbohydrates, and fats, from a TCM perspective, we look at the individual we are treating and many aspects at the time of treatment. Some of the aspects that we make our recommendations based on are:
· The yin and yang balance of an individual
· The age and constitution of an individual
· The yin and yang of each food we are recommending
· The season of the year
These aspects are important to make sure we are balancing all parts of the body, mind, and spirit.
By looking at the yin and yang of an individual, we are addressing the movement of qi (energy) and fluids in the body. The yin and yang also illustrates an excess or deficiency of energy in the body. Yin and yang levels also indicate the level of hot or cold in an individual. By being aware of one’s body temperature, we can be more certain as to not create in an imbalance in their body. For example, by recommending cold foods to someone who has a “cold” presentation, showing cold hands and feet and slow digestion, would only exacerbate their symptoms and further slow digestion. This awareness of hot and cold is an important yin/yang aspect of a food as well because all foods have yin/yang in them. So we want to balance specific foods to create harmony in the digestive system.
An individual’s age makes a difference in the entire digestive system which can also be affected by other aspects of health. For an older individual, we may recommend to use spicy foods sparingly as to not upset the delicate intestinal tract that we tend to see in older individuals. We also take into account the season of the year, the climate that we are in. This idea goes along with keeping in mind the hot/cold nature of a food. If we are consistently in a cold, damp environment, this allows for slow movement of nourishment in the body-which can lead to energy stagnation and depletion. Also, we should be eating the foods that are grown in each season. We are closely connected to nature and the bountiful Earth we live on so it only makes sense that we take in the foods that Mother Earth gives to us throughout the seasons.
In all cases, no matter your choice of food lifestyle, it is also essential to have what your body is telling you it needs. There is always a reason behind the craving your body has and in order to satisfy it, physically, socially, and emotionally, within moderation, then we should stay in alignment with our systems’ desires and needs.
By keeping all of this in mind when making food recommendations, we can make a holistic choice for our mind, body, and spirit which will bring about health and harmony!
Caroline Jung, Dipl. Ac., MSOM
