Dietary Advice for the Summer Fire-Element

Mon, July 23, 2018

Enjoy our weekly wellness tip from Licensed Acupuncturist, Michael Savalli, from the office of Elizabeth Martin.

Dietary Advice for the Fire Element
 
Bitter foods are good for the fire element organs. The bitter flavor helps regulate heat, during this hot time of year. But remember, in moderation, as too much can injure these organs. Good, bitter, “fire” foods are Dandelion greens, romaine, red bell pepper, parsley, alfalfa, bitter melon, kale, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, cherries, beets, and red lentils. Exceptionally good bitter foods are artichoke, cacao, chamomile, and coffee.
 
Coffee is a particularly good “bitter” food. It counters fatigue and depression, improves cognition, detoxifies the liver, and reduces insulin resistance while reducing inflammation and heart disease. However, this potent plant can have negative effects on some. Avoid or limit coffee intake if it causes for you; jitters, insomnia, or anxiety. Coffee is a powerful stimulant and carries the danger of abuse and addiction. However, used moderately it is an excellent medicinal. Also, cold-brewed coffee is slightly less bitter, making it more palatable for those who don’t like hot-brewed coffee.
 
Spiced Cold-Brew Coffee. A recipe from Alchemy of Herbs, by Rosalee De La Floret.
 
1 cup coarse ground coffee beans –
½ tsp. Cinnamon powder –
¼ tsp cardamom powder –
cream, honey, or sugar (optional) –
 
Put ground beans and spices in a 1-quart jar. Fill with water and stir well. Cover it with a lid and let sit in the fridge for 12 hours. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth. This makes the cold-brew concentrate that will last about a week, in the fridge. When ready to drink, mix 1-part concentrate to 2 parts liquid. (For example, ¼ cup mix, with ½ cup water, or with ¼ cup water and ¼ cup cream.) A cool, bitter drink that’s perfect for summer.

Meet Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Michael is a board certified NY State Licensed Acupuncturist, who received his Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from New York College of Health Professions.  While in this program, he also specialized in Chinese Herbal Medicine. If you or anyone you know is interested in staying healthy this season, schedule your appointment and learn how Acupuncture and herbs can boost your immunity. 

631-601-6491

Click to learn more about Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

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We Sell Products

To enhance your healthy lifestyle experience we sell all forms of Chinese herbal linaments, to pain patches and liquids that help the pain, enhance healing, and promote wellness. Each product has been carefully selected and tested. We only sell high-quality medicinal grade products. Ask your practitioner what products would be right for you!

631-601-6491

A proper diet is one of the best things you can do to take care of yourself.  Use these suggestions to harmonize your diet with the summer season.

With Love,

Liz

Elizabeth M. Martin, MSOM, L.Ac, LMT and the Staff at Hands on Acupuncture and Massage Therapy, P.C.