Introduction: Traditional Chinese Medicine often states that some foods are "cold" in nature while others are "hot". So, how can we distinguish the five natures of food (Neutral, Hot, Warm, Cold, and Cool)? And what are the dietary taboos for each category? Now, we invite Xiong Miao, a National Senior Nutritionist and Council Member of the Beijing Nutritionists Association, to explain these concepts in detail.
Neutral Foods: Neutral foods are the most harmless and suitable for people of all constitutions, such as potatoes and green jujubes.
Dry-pot Potato Slices
Hot Foods: Both hot and warm foods can easily generate heat in the body, increase vitality, and improve the physical functions of those with a "cold" constitution, such as chili peppers and mutton. However, if individuals with a "hot" constitution consume hot foods, it can easily lead to over-excitement in the body, causing discomforts like swelling, congestion, and constipation.
Chicken with Shiitake Mushrooms and Tofu
Warm Foods: The nature of warm foods is similar to hot foods but is milder. Examples include mustard greens and chicken, which are suitable for people with a "cold" constitution. For those with a "hot" constitution, they should be consumed with caution, just like hot foods.
Chicken with Shiitake Mushrooms and Tofu
Cold Foods: Both cold and cool foods can cool the body and reduce heat, possessing effects of clearing "fire" and reducing inflammation, such as water chestnuts and Job's tears. Cold foods can help improve issues like insomnia, swelling, and inflammation in people with a "hot" constitution. However, for those with a "cold" constitution, eating these foods can worsen problems like aversion to cold, chills, and rheumatism.
Cool Foods: The nature of cool foods is similar to cold foods but is milder. Examples include dragon fruit and wheat. Cool foods can clear heat and are suitable for people with a "hot" or "heaty" constitution, while individuals with a "cold" constitution should consume them with caution.
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Cold Dragon Fruit Peel Salad