Why learn about the TCM diet?

Mon, Mar 11, 2019

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

Why try a TCM diet?

We’ve talked a lot about eating with the seasons, and those recommended foods from TCM.  We all know that diet seriously affects our health. So, why look into things from a TCM approach?  Isn’t food just food?

Well; yes, and no.  In the west, when we talk about diet, we talk about: calories, carbs, fats…these are called macro-nutrients (macro meaning “big”.)  Then we also have micro-nutrients: vitamins, minerals, etc. A western diet, (especially one where you’re trying to lose weight), says get as many nutrients as you can, while limiting the amount of calories. While this is based on sound theories, in practice, it is not always easy to achieve. If it was, we wouldn’t be so overweight as a country. With this in mind, perhaps exactly what we need is a different way of thinking about food.

Western diets are one approach to foods. TCM offers another. Instead of basing foods on macro- and micro-nutrients, it is based on the flavors of foods, and the effects those flavors have on our bodies. We call this “food energetics”. It explains why certain foods are better at certain times, and why some foods are good for some people, but not for others. This does not mean you have to only eat Chinese Foods.  It’s just that because the system is from TCM, the energetic qualities of these foods are already well mapped. For example, once you know what a “sour” food is, and that you should eat more sour foods in spring, you can choose from any number of sour foods available.  (However, from an ecological point of view though, it is generally best to buy local, and in season.)

 I was very surprised when I first came across this diet.  But it offered me a new way of relating to the foods on my plate, and a new understanding on how foods can impact a person’s health.  I believe with practice it can benefit the health of many people.

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

Book a Tai Chi Class CLICK HERE

Crystal Bowl Healing Workshop

Wed March 20th, 6-7pmSound healing has many benefits including reducing stress and anxiety. The Theory is based on Indian medicine of chakras in clearing blocked energy within ourselves. Sound healing is often referred close to reiki. It is a form of energy healing that allows your body to self-regulate and self heal. Let the sounds vibrate through you to feel the power of self preservation and healing. Sound healing is a form of meditation that is performed in a group where you lay on the mat and let the sound take you to another place.

Limited space available, must reserve in advance!

Register Here

Keep working on those diets, it’s a practice for life!

With Love,

Liz

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