EMBRACING AUTUMN WITH CHINESE MEDICINE DIETARY THERAPY: A GUIDE FROM ACUBLEND
As the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp, our bodies naturally shift to adapt to the autumn season. At AcuBlend, we believe that aligning your diet with the changing seasons is crucial for maintaining health and well-being. Dr. Sian James, our expert in acupuncture and integrative medicine, shares insights on how Chinese Medicine Dietary Therapy can support your health this autumn.
The Importance of Seasonal Eating in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific organs and elements. Autumn is linked to the lungs and the metal element, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the respiratory system and preparing the body for the colder months ahead. Incorporating seasonal foods that are warming and nourishing helps to strengthen the lungs and support overall immunity.
Key Dietary Recommendations for Autumn
Focus on Warm, Moistening Foods As the weather cools, it’s beneficial to include warm, cooked foods in your diet. Soups, stews, and broths are excellent choices. These foods not only warm the body but also provide essential moisture to combat the dryness often associated with autumn.
Incorporate Seasonal Produce Root vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins are in abundance during the fall and are excellent for nourishing the lungs. Pears, apples, and squash are also recommended for their moistening properties.
Use Warming Spices Ginger, cinnamon, and garlic are not only flavorful but also help to warm the body and support digestive health. These spices can be easily added to soups, teas, and stir-fries.
Avoid Cold and Raw Foods Cold foods can weaken the digestive system and lungs. Instead, opt for cooked and warming meals to support your body's natural functions during this season.
Traditional Chinese Herbal Chicken Soup
A perfect way to incorporate these principles is through a nourishing bowl of Traditional Chinese Herbal Chicken Soup. This soup is designed to warm the body, support the lungs, and boost overall immunity. For our vegetarian patients, tofu can be substituted for chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 whole organic chicken (or 1 block of firm tofu, cubed)
- 1 cup dried shiitake mushrooms
- 2-3 slices of fresh ginger
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 pieces of Chinese yam (shan yao)
- 5-6 red dates (jujube)
- 1-2 pieces of dried goji berries
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 1 medium daikon radish, chopped
- 8 cups of water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
1. If using chicken, rinse it thoroughly and cut it into pieces. If using tofu, cut it into cubes and set aside.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
3. Add the chicken pieces (or tofu), dried mushrooms, ginger, garlic, Chinese yam, red dates, goji berries, carrot, and daikon radish.
4. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the nourishing benefits.
At AcuBlend, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health through integrative and holistic approaches. By adjusting your diet to include seasonal, warming foods, you can enhance your well-being and prepare your body for the autumn season. For more personalized dietary advice and treatments, visit us at our Stamford, CT, or Manhattan, NY locations.
For further reading on the principles of Chinese Medicine Dietary Therapy, consider exploring resources from reputable organizations such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR).
Stay warm, stay healthy, and embrace the changes of the season with AcuBlend. Boost your health this autumn with these TCM dietary tips from Dr. Sian James at AcuBlend.