According to traditional Chinese medicine, the five flavors of food are closely related to the five organs of the body. "Each flavor corresponds to a specific organ" illustrates the principle that each flavor corresponds to a specific organ. In the following analysis, we will discuss the five flavors corresponding to the five organs and the dietary taboos for each flavor.
Avoid excessive sourness
Excessive sourness can harm the liver and cause liver yang hyperactivity, disharmony between the liver and spleen, and damage to the spleen's digestive function. Especially for patients with gallstones or cholecystitis, consuming too much of these foods can worsen the condition, leading to increased abdominal distension, loss of appetite, and even vomiting.
Benefits of eating sour foods: Eating sour foods in moderation can invigorate the spleen, stimulate the appetite, enhance liver and kidney function, and improve the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
Avoid excessive saltiness
Excessive saltiness affects the kidneys, which are responsible for the bones. Consuming too much salt can cause fatigue and weakness in the bones, muscle shrinkage, and hinder the body's flexibility and health. Excessive saltiness can also cause blood stasis, leading to the appearance of spots in women, premature aging, and other symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, excessive sweating, lack of energy, and dull complexion.
Benefits of eating salty foods: Salty taste helps regulate the osmotic pressure balance of cells and blood, and normal water, sodium, and potassium metabolism.
Avoid excessive spiciness
Excessive spiciness can harm the lungs, causing slow circulation of the meridians, as the lungs govern the qi. Lung qi deficiency can lead to mental weakness and spiritual fatigue. People with conditions such as mental weakness should avoid consuming excessive spicy foods.
Benefits of eating spicy foods: The pungent taste can stimulate gastrointestinal peristalsis, increase the secretion of digestive fluids, promote blood circulation, and enhance metabolism.
Avoid excessive bitterness
Bitter foods are considered cold in nature. Excessive consumption of bitter foods can cause discomfort in the stomach, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, especially for those with weak spleen and stomach, cold pain in the epigastric region, and loose stools. It is also not suitable for individuals with conditions such as spleen and stomach weakness, as it can worsen the condition.
Benefits of eating bitter foods: Bitter taste can relieve restlessness and dampness, clear heat and toxins, promote bowel movements, and diuretic effects.
Avoid excessive sweetness
Excessive sweetness affects the spleen and stomach. It is especially unsuitable for women with conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits of eating sweet foods: Sweet taste can nourish qi and blood, relieve muscle fatigue, harmonize the spleen and stomach, and alleviate pain.
In conclusion, regardless of the flavor of food, it is important not to consume it excessively. Eating in moderation can help maintain a healthy body and provide a delightful taste experience.
