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Food as Medicine - Page 2

© Matthew Scott

Traditional Chinese banquets are prepared with all of this in mind. Each dish is a harmonious balance of food types, energies and flavors that compliment not only the other dishes being served but also the current season.

TCM principles were developed over several thousand years of observation of nature and the effects its rhythmic cycles have on all living things. For instance, in the heat of summer we instinctively desire cooling, yin type foods. Correspondingly, when it's cold we prefer yang foods for their warming effect on our bodies.

Despite this many people eat an unbalanced diet either through lack of knowledge or plain ignorance of their bodies or both. Particularly in Western countries many people consume too much meat and alcohol. Over time this creates an abundance of yang energy or heat in their bodies. I have a friend in Australia who's diet is just like this. As a result he regularly complains of heartburn and large pimples often break out on his face. Both conditions are signs of excess yang energy in his body.

To effectively treat the problem he needs to reduce both his alcohol and meat intake and subsequently consume more cooling, yin foods. Additionally, herbal therapy and acupuncture would help balance the yin and yang energies in his body.

With a 5000 year history of consistent use, TCM is obviously a vast subject. This article has merely touched on the principles of TCM dietary therapy. If I've stimulated your desire for further information on this or other aspects of TCM, check out my previous articles and the list of weblinks. Additionally you can post your queries or comments in the discussion area provided.

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