Traditional Chinese Medicine
This article will introduce you to the foundations of Dietetics and the traditional Chinese medicine diet, as well as the overall theory of how diet relates to Chinese medical theory. First, it's important to understand that organs in Chinese medicine are associated with specific natures and flavors. For instance, the Spleen and Stomach are linked organs that are associated with the sweet flavor. The Long and Large Intestine are another organ pair associated with the spicy or acrid flavor. The Kidney and Bladder are considered an organ pair associated with the salty flavor. The Liver and Gallbladder are an organ pair associated with the sour flavor. Lastly, the Heart and Small Intestine are an organ pair associated with the bitter flavor. These associations were made by ancient physicians who observed a relationship between certain foods and specific organs. For example, they noticed that spicy or acrid foods, such as chili peppers, can cause the nasal passages to open up, increase mucus production, and stimulate saliva flow. This is how they concluded that spicy foods have an effect on the Lungs. While this may seem like an unconventional concept, it reflects the observations made by ancient Chinese physicians regarding the impact of food on the physical organs of the body.