Foods to Help Us Transition to Autumn

With autumn approaching we are entering what is considered the “yin cycle” in Chinese Medicine. During this time, our energy - as well as that of plants and animals - is moving into the interior, as we prepare for a slower time of the year. The lungs and large intestine are the organs associated with fall. The lungs are responsible for the circulation of Qi (the body’s natural flow and circulation), and are also very susceptible to cold and illness.

Autumn Foods:

As temperatures drop and we move into fall, we can support our body by eating more warming dishes. Foods that are in harmony with this season include sour foods, as well as foods rich in protein and fats. Seasonal vegetables & fruits like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and apples can help purify and protect your body against free radicals. These color-rich foods are packed with beta-carotene, which then turns into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for our immune system, especially as the cold and flu season rolls in. These vegetables can also strengthen your lungs and large intestine to fight illness.

Vegetables to cook with:

• carrots

• winter squash

• pumpkin

• broccoli

• parsley

• kale

• turnip greens

Sour/pungent foods to cook with:

• sourdough bread

• sauerkraut

• adzuki beans

• yogurt

• rosehip tea

• ginger

• garlic

• horseradish

In addition to making these changes to your diet, fall is a great time to see your acupuncturist to help your body and mind adapt to the changing of the season.