This week's topic is devoted to ancient Chinese Nutrition Therapy for Spring Renewal and Rejuvenation.  After a particularly long and hard Chicago winter, many of us have awaited some spring weather and feel a shift within us to embrace something new, while moving out the old. Part of that pertains to the idea of detox which we touched upon last week.

According to ancient five element theory, life begins with wood and that is the element associated with spring. We then eat within the confines of that element and properties associated with it.  Spring is associated with energy, and the strength to grow and change as well as move beyond the obstacles associated with the confines of winter.

Chinese Medical Theory associates the wood element with the liver organ. The liver has many functions one of which is to govern the smooth flow of energy throughout the body.  When the liver is functioning optimally, the digestion is working properly, moods are stable, and hormonally things are optimal.  When energy is stagnant or blocked, anger and frustration are predominant, and digestion and hormones are off kilter.

The spring diet should be the lightest of the year in order to move out waste from the heavier fare of winter.  Shoots and budding plants predominate, so salt should be limited as that is a heavier energy.  The color green has a particular affinity for the liver so Kale, collards, and dandelion are all good vegetables for the liver. Sweeter flavors and pungent flavors are best for this season. An example here would be an argula salad with small oranges, beets, garlic and a citrus vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing.

The season of spring is an optimal time to eat more raw fruits and vegetables as most people can tolerate from 1/3 to 1/2 of their diet during this period.  People with digestive problems should refrain from adding more raw foods to their diets during this time. For those people lightly stirfrying or sauteeing would be more beneficial.

Due to their sugar content, fruits must be limited to no more than three servings per day for most people. It is also more beneficial to eat the whole fruits versus juicing them.  Products such as Green's First, available in the Natural Products store online or at our clinic is energetically balanced and avoids these particular issues.

Other foods beneficial to the liver are: cruciferous vegetables such as broccolli, cauliflower and cabbage, beets, and brussel sprouts.

Undereating by 1/4 to 1/3 and increasing activity will make it easier to lose weight during this part of the year.

Blessings, Taryn

Have a Safe and Happy Memorial Day Weekend.  See you next week!

Best of Health!  Visit our Chinese Herbs aisle for excellent natural products!

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Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

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Arlington Heights, IL

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