Since we were young, in our parents and grandparents' time, they have always mentioned avoiding heaty foods such as nuts, chocolates, or fried food, and consuming more cooling foods. This concept has since imprinted in my mind but what do heaty or cooling foods mean?
The term heaty or cooling foods comes from the concept of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Through observation of the food effects on our body, these foods are then categorized into heaty, cooling, or neutral types. Each type has its positive or negative in our body. The concept is not well perceived in Western medicine, because of the different perspectives the doctors diagnose a condition.
Examining the perspective of TCM, we can understand how nuts affect our bodies and why they are classified in a particular way.
Which Category Does Nuts Fall Under?
Passing down from the older generation, nuts have always been categorized as a heaty food. However, some articles found online may differ from this claim, well, it's true to a certain extent, however not all nuts fall under the heaty food. For example, nuts such as pistachios or walnuts are categorized as heaty food. Peanuts are considered neutral and do not affect the heat or cooling effect on our body.
What Does Heaty or Cooling Foods Mean?
The concept of heaty and cooling foods comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the philosophy of yin (cooling) and yang (heaty). TCM practitioners use these classifications to understand how different foods might affect the body based on thousands of years of observation.
Body Constitution of Yin and Yang
TCM considers a person's body constitution to be either yin or yang leaning. People with a yang constitution (more warmth) might benefit from incorporating more cooling foods into their diet. Conversely, those with a yin constitution (more coolness) might focus on including warming foods. It's important to remember that individual bodies react differently to foods, so consulting a qualified TCM practitioner can provide personalized guidance.
Does it Matter to Achieve a Balance?
Regardless of your specific body constitution, the idea of heaty and cooling foods can be a helpful tool for achieving a balanced diet. By incorporating a variety of foods from across the spectrum, you can nourish your body and promote overall health.
Nuts in a Healthy Balanced Diet
Now we understand from the concept of heaty and cooling foods that finding the right balance in our diet is much more important. As the old proverb says, "Too much of anything is bad for you," and this holds for even healthy foods.
Nuts are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing a range of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, they are also calorie-dense, so overconsumption can lead to excess calorie intake.
The key to enjoying nuts as part of a balanced diet lies in mindful snacking. A small handful is a perfect portion to reap the benefits of these nutritional powerhouses without disrupting your body's balance.
Moderation is Key
While the concept of heaty and cooling foods from TCM provides a framework, achieving a balanced diet is key. Nuts, despite sometimes being categorized as heaty in TCM, are nutritional powerhouses packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The key to enjoying these benefits lies in mindful snacking. By incorporating a small handful of nuts into your diet and practicing portion control, you can reap the rewards of these nutritious treats without disrupting your body's balance. So, the next time you reach for a snack, consider grabbing a handful of nuts – a delicious and balanced way to nourish your body!
Reference Lists
https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/heaty-and-cooling-09nov2015-nhg
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0023643821007519
