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🔗Links mentioned in the episode:
The 5 Spirits in Chinese Medicine
Liver Health in TCM: Nutritional Strategies for Harmony
Gut Health in Naturopathic Medicine & Chinese Medicine with Dr. Alex Dragan
Show Notes
During summer, the heart is the organ that demands special attention. In TCM, the heart is considered the emperor of all organs, ruling over mental and emotional activities. Focusing on heart nutrition during this season can prevent imbalances that might lead to various deficiencies or excesses. Below, we’ll dive into common heart-related issues in TCM and how to address them through proper nutrition and practices. Traditional Chinese Medicine highlights the importance of balancing the body’s internal systems to maintain health and well-being.
Heart Yin Deficiency 😰
Often manifests as insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, and night sweats. This type of deficiency is typically caused by overexertion, emotional stress, or prolonged illnesses that consume yin fluids. To nourish the heart yin, it is recommended to incorporate foods that are cooling and moistening. Examples include:
– Goji berries
– Sour fruits such as plums and tomatoes
– Spinach and other leafy greens
– Foods rich in essential fatty acids like flaxseeds and walnuts
Heart Qi Deficiency 😥
May present symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and spontaneous sweating. It occurs when the heart’s energy is not strong enough, often due to chronic stress or excessive mental work. Strengthening the heart qi requires foods that are warm and tonifying:
– Whole grains like oats and barley
– Red dates and longan fruit
– Lean meats such as chicken and turkey
– Various legumes and beans
Heart Blood Deficiency 🥴
When there is a lack of sufficient blood, individuals may experience poor memory, anxiety, dizziness, and pale complexion. This condition can stem from inadequate nutrition or long-term hemorrhage. To enrich blood, focus on consuming:
– Red-colored foods such as beets and cherries
– Dark leafy greens like kale
– Animal liver (for those who consume meat)
– Hearty broths and slow-cooked stews
Heart Fire 😪
Is characterized by symptoms like insomnia, mental restlessness, a red tongue, and mouth ulcers. This imbalance results from excessive consumption of hot, spicy foods, and emotional agitation. To cool and clear heart fire, introduce the following into your diet:
– Cooling herbs like mint and chrysanthemum
– Melons such as watermelon and cucumber
– Green tea and lotus seed tea
– Bitter foods that promote circulation like dandelion greens
Phlegm Fire in the Heart 😤
Is an extension of Heart Fire with symptoms that are more severe and may include mental disturbances, inappropriate behavior, and violent outbursts. This condition requires a strict regimen to eliminate phlegm and calm the fire:
– Light and easily digestible foods like rice porridge
– Bitter and cold foods such as bitter melon
– Mung beans and celery
– Avoiding dairy and greasy foods which can create phlegm
By aligning your diet and lifestyle with these TCM principles, you can help maintain your heart’s health and overall well-being during the summer months. Remember, balance is key in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the heart’s health can influence both physical and emotional states. Make sure to consult with a TCM practitioner to tailor these guidelines specifically to your needs.
Stay healthy and enjoy the summer season with a nourished heart!
Disclaimer
The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. Users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice for any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.
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