Do you try to eat as healthy as you possibly can but still suffer from occasional or frequent fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, or other health-related problems? As much food as we eat on a daily basis in our whole lifetime, the education on nutrition that we receive while growing up is quite minimal and usually one-sided. We all hear about carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that make up the components of the foods that we eat. But have you ever wondered about or even acknowledged the idea of the energetics of the foods that we eat and how it can affect our bodies?

In general, I love talking about food! And as an acupuncturist, I love sharing with people how food can help improve their overall wellbeing from a Chinese medical perspective. In Chinese Medicine, which has been practiced for over 3,000 years, there is the idea of a macrocosm-microcosm paradigm that happens; meaning whatever happens in nature also happens in our bodies. And by simply observing nature and the climate of where you currently reside, this concept can be quite easy to implement into your daily life year-round just by becoming a little more mindful of which foods you decide to put into your body.

In Idaho, we definitely have weather that pertains to all four seasons. The winters are cold and, depending on where you live, there is usually rain and snow. Spring and autumn can be pretty wet and damp with rain but also quite windy at times with cool temperatures; while summers are very hot and dry.

Breaking it down season by season, as the weather and temperature change so should the kinds of foods you eat to compliment what is occurring in nature. In the wintertime because the temperature is so cold, water tends to freeze into ice and the energy of some plants and animals goes inward and slows down. Therefore, during this season try eating more soups or stews; roasted, sautéed, or steamed vegetables, and drink more warm or room temperature fluids. These foods can be easier on your digestive system. Try to avoid eating too many raw, cold foods like salads and smoothies. As the temperature starts warming up during the spring and summertime, adding more raw and cold foods back into your diet is more appropriate for the digestive system.

Remember, it is all about balance if you are trying to promote optimal digestive function and health, according to Chinese medicine. If it is cold outside, try feeding your body warm foods and fluids. If it is hot outside, try feeding your body cool or cold foods and fluids.

Licensed acupuncturists do more than just acupuncture. We look at diet and lifestyle to help you live the abundant life you want to live. If you would like more information on how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help improve your quality of life, we offer free 15-minute phone or in-person consultations.