Ok, I know its not summer yet, but w/ Texas at least already having had some pretty hot days this year, most everyone is already needing to cool off!
Chinese nutrition is primarily based on the properties of food i.e. hot, cold, warm, cool & neutral as well as the effect certain foods will have on qi, blood, body fluids, yin, yang & how to reduce damp &/or phlegm accumulation.
Below are foods that are important to keep in your diet during the summer months & they are all good for you too w/ important nutrients everyone needs!
Cold, Cool & Neutral Foods:
Grains: Barley, Millet, Wheat, Corn, Rice
Legumes, Nuts, Seeds: Tofu, Mung Beans, Lentils, Peas, Almonds, Sesame & Sunflower Seeds, Aduzki Beans
Veggies: Asparagus, Bamboo Shoots, Radishes, Kelp, Seaweed, Beets, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumber, Eggplant, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Spinach, Tomatoes, Green Beans, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Turnips
Fruit: Bananas, Kiwi, Lemons, Persimmons, Watermelon, Apple, Figs, Mango, Citrus Fruits, Pears, Strawberries, Dates, Grapes, Olives, Pineapples, Plums
Seafood: Clam, Crab, Oyster, Herring, Mackerel
Meat: Duck, Beef, Chicken, Egg, Ham, Pork
Herbs, Spices, Etc: Tea, Beer, Mint, White Sugar, Honey, Milk
-- Most of these foods will serve a dual purpose in helping to generate fluids to keep the body hydrated, though we must never forget the importance of 64-90oz. of water daily!!
Given we're trying to stay cool & keep our fluids up in the summer it is best to avoid foods & beverages that can create heat in the body such as spicy foods, fried foods & salty foods. I know... All of our favorite BBQ foods. Which leads me to note--you can also always treat yourself! Over my years of personal & professional experience, I have found "everything in moderation" to hold true.
Enjoy the summer, eat to your health to enjoy it that much more & keep you feeling & looking your summer best!
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