Seasonal Foods for Optimal Health: Fall
I know that winter is just around the corner so I’m a little late to the game on posting this article, but for all of us in Central Texas, it still feels very much like fall. Better late than never, so here goes!
I’ve talked in the past about the emphasis that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) puts on living in harmony with the seasons to maintain your health, so I’d like to share a list of foods that you can incorporate into your diet to keep you healthy this fall. Not only is it good to consume food that is in season and hopefully local to your area, there are specific things and flavors that you should eat right now. And I’ll tell you why they’re so great!
Spicy (Pungent) Flavors: Spicy or pungent foods are good to circulate the body’s Qi and Blood. They’re also beneficial for the Lung organ, particularly if there is congestion which can be typical of the fall. The Lungs are the organ related to this season, which makes them more vulnerable. That’s why we start to see more people with colds and fall allergies now.
Garlic and Onions
Curries
Ginger
Peppers
Cinnamon
Horseradish
Nutmeg
Cayenne
Turnips
Parsnips
Daikon Radish
Cabbage
Mustard Greens
Cooked Vegetables: In moderation, raw vegetables are ok to consume in the spring and summer, but once fall rolls around, you definitely want all your veggies to be cooked. This helps your body to stay warm and it helps to protect the function of your digestive system.
Warming Soups & Stews: For the same reason as eating cooked vegetables.
Orange Vegetables: Good for your digestive system, which in turn helps your immune system.
Acorn Squash
Butternut Squash
Pumpkin
Carrots
Sweet Potato
Foods That are White: Many fruits and vegetables that are white in color are beneficial for the lung.
Pear (especially for dry cough)
Onion
Apples
Daikon Radish
Ginger
White Pepper
Horseradish
In addition to diet are are some other things that are helpful for living in harmony this fall season.
Dress the Part: Layer up and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature. It’s a good idea to carry a scarf around with you. Avoid catching a chill!
Brisk Walks: This is the best time of year to get outside and take a brisk walk. You’re lungs will appreciate the fresh air and it helps to circulate Qi and Blood.
Letting Go: If you carry unprocessed grief or hurt, now is a good time to work on letting go. A heightened awareness of these emotions can coincide with the change of season and this can affect your physical health. This could be when you start seeing a therapist or begin a meditation practice.
Sleep: It’s ok to get more sleep in the fall and winter. We left the more expansive season of summer to enter a more contractive time. Your body will appreciate more rest now than it needed in the spring and summer.
I hope this contains some useful information for you and that you have a warm, healthy, and abundant season!