Bitter Foods for Summer Health

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) each season correlates to specific organs, elements, emotions, and flavors. Summer relates to the heart organ, fire element, the emotion of joy, and the flavor of bitter. It is the most yang time of year, an energy in our body and the natural world that reflects light, heat, growth, activity, and creativity.

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Summer and the Fire Element 

This season is connected to the heart organ with its physical and emotional functions. When the heart is balanced, we are calm and joyful. Too much of the fire element can cause excess heat and dryness in the body. We may see an increase in symptoms such as UTIs, constipation, insomnia, emotional imbalances (nervousness, restlessness, depression, mania), irregular heartbeat.  

Cool down with bitter 

Food is used as therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine and adjusting our diet helps keep us in tune with the season. Bitter is helpful for inflammation, infection, constipation, cholesterol, regulating blood pressure, yeast overgrowth, and excess mucus.

Bitter foods are connected to the heart system and are useful for cooling the body

They are loaded with nutrients, great for gut health and digestion, and supportive as a diuretic.

Incorporate bitter greens (arugula, romaine, mustard), turmeric, celery, asparagus, and quinoa to get these benefits. Enjoy coffee and dark chocolate in moderation.

Green tea is cooling in nature and best for warmer weather or hot body types. Even though a hot drink may seem counter intuitive, it helps bring heat to the surface of our body, ultimately cooling us down.

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Treat winter diseases in the summer

Acupuncture is best when used preventatively. There is a theory in TCM to strengthen the body in summer to reduce the severity of ailments of the upcoming seasons. This is a good time to prepare for typical fall and winter health concerns (allergies, poor circulation, joint pain, tendency toward feeling cold, fatigue). Start treatments now to be your healthiest self!