Foods in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) have certain properties and affects on the body after eaten. Cold food can exacerbate a cold feeling in the body and spicy food can add fuel to the internal heat you may already feel inside. Grilled or baked foods have a drying affect on the body and stewed foods and soups have a moistening affect.

Some foods are helpful for building our bones, hair, muscles, cells, fluid and energy. These include carbohydrates, protein and fat found in animal products, nuts/seeds, legumes, tubers/root vegetables and whole grains. Although they are highly nutritious, if we eat too much of these building foods it can create some stagnation inside, which could create inflammation in the body, joint pain and digestive issues.

Other foods have a clearing or moving quality to them…they often have fiber in them which helps to clear away built up toxins and helps the bowels to move. They include legumes, whole grains, green vegetables, bitter melon, sweet potato, seeds, fruit and bitter greens.

Work with one of our practitioners to find out how your food can support and nurture your body.