Foods to eat during fall according to Chinese Medicine

Happy Fall Equinox!

Although the leaves don’t fall or turn golden in Southern California, we still get the crisp dry air and (somewhat) cool mornings and evenings. Fall is all about letting go and harvesting the growth of seeds we planted back in spring. In Chinese Medicine we say that fall is associated with the lungs which are susceptible to dryness, so good foods to consume in the fall are nourishing and moistening. The lungs are also associated with allergies and cold/flus, so it's a good time to eat immune boosting foods. Here are some foods to incorporate into your diet this fall to get you feeling your very best.

1. Pears

Pear benefits the Lungs and help soothe a dry throat. They are especially good for people with allergies and asthma. If your lungs feel dry, try them steamed with a spoonful of honey

2. Sweet Potatoes

Nature's sweet gift! They strengthen the digestive tract and when cooked and cooled they become resistant starch and will feed the good bacteria in your gut. Roast them, mash them, or add them to stews for warmth and grounding.

3.Apples

Fall's crisp apples moisten the lungs and contain polyphenols that feed some pretty important anaerobic bacteria in your gut called akkermansia that help protect the integrity of the gut lining. Enjoy them fresh, or bake them with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting treat. And if you’re feeling festive (you know that you are), go apple picking and gather them yourself

4.Figs

Figs are nourishing to the lungs and can soothe a dry cough and dry throat. They are also a natural laxative so eat several if your motility time could use a boost

4. Butternut squash and pumpkin

A fall foods list would be incomplete without these staples.  Both are high in b vitamins and vitamin c and help boost digestive fire and build fluids to offset the dryness of fall. Obviously, these should be made into a soup.

5. Persimmons

These are great for dry throat and dry coughs as well as constipation. They are also anti-inflammatory and can benefit arthritis

6. Cinnamon

This aromatic spice warms the body's yang or digestive fire, it also promotes a balanced microbiome and can prevent colds/flus. Sprinkle it on oatmeal, blend it into smoothies, or infuse it in tea.

7. Ginger and garlic

Both of these warm spices boost immunity, decrease inflammation & histamine and aid digestion, which makes them perfect for this (cooler) dry season

Remember, Chinese Medicine encourages us to eat seasonally to align our bodies with nature's rhythms. By incorporating these foods, you can nourish your body and maintain balance as we transition into this beautiful season of change. Need a season tune up? Come visit our acupuncture clinic in Beverly Hills.