When the scorching summer heat arrives, many people turn to ice cream as a refreshing treat. However, you may have heard suggestions from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners to avoid consuming cold foods. So, can you really eat ice cream during the summer? And why does TCM discourage it? Let's delve into these questions and examine TCM's viewpoint and recommendations.
The Concept of Yin and Yang Balance:
According to TCM principles, summer is the season when the "pathogenic heat" is most prevalent. The invasion of pathogenic heat can damage the body's Yin fluids and disrupt the balance between Yin and Yang. TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining this balance for overall health. Consuming icy-cold foods and beverages can cause contraction of the intestines, impairing their function and damaging the digestive power of the Spleen and Stomach. Additionally, the cold nature of ice cream can lead to blood vessel constriction, affecting proper blood circulation. These factors can negatively impact the digestive and circulatory systems.
Heat Dispersal and Sweat Secretion:
TCM believes that the body needs to disperse excess heat and facilitate sweat secretion naturally during the summer. Sweating is a natural cooling mechanism. Consuming cold foods and beverages inhibits sweat secretion due to their cold nature, preventing effective heat dissipation. This may lead to the accumulation of pathogenic heat in the body, resulting in various discomforts such as dry mouth, decreased appetite, and bloating.
Moderation and Individual Variations:
However, TCM's recommendations do not completely ban the consumption of cold foods. If you have a healthy body and a constitution leaning towards coldness or have a strong adaptability, enjoying ice cream in moderation might not have a significant impact. TCM suggests opting for warm-natured foods such as tropical fruits, cooling soups, or beverages to achieve a refreshing effect without burdening the Spleen and Stomach or compromising circulation.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, TCM advises against consuming ice cream during the summer due to its potential adverse effects on digestion and circulation. Cold foods can disrupt the Yin-Yang balance and hinder the body's natural heat dispersal mechanisms. Nevertheless, if you have good health and adaptability, moderate consumption might not cause significant harm. It is essential to listen to your body's needs and strive for balance. Staying hydrated, taking adequate rest, and adapting to climate changes are crucial for maintaining overall health. Consult with your healthcare provider or TCM practitioner to tailor your diet and lifestyle choices based on your individual constitution and requirements.
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