For there to be health the Qi of the body needs to flow smoothly throughout the body.
The organ network that is most affected by the stagnation of Qi is the Liver network.
Stress, irregular eating habits as well as synthetic substances (preservatives, pharmaceuticals, and coloring agents, for example) all interfere with the Liver network’s function of maintaining the even flow of Qi.
In general it is best to eat foods that are lightly cooked to ensure that nutrients are preserved and are more readily digested and absorbed.
General dietary recommendations include:
- Regular eating times, eating moderate amounts and chewing thoroughly to savor flavors.
- Eating while distracted or emotionally stressed should be avoided.
- The diet should also include plenty of fragrant and lightly spiced dishes.
- Highly processed foods and well as oily and fatty foods should be avoided.
- Where ever possible choose organically grown foods.
Specific foods for Liver Qi Stagnation
- Onions, garlic, mustard greens, watercress, asparagus, taro root, cabbage,
- Turnip, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, beets, artichokes,
- Carrots, celery, small amounts of citrus
- Turmeric, basil, mint, horseradish, pepper, cardamon, cumin, fennel, dill,
- Ginger, small amounts of pickled vegetables.
- Small quantities of coffee (no more than 1/day)
- , soy sauce, rose and jasmine flowers
- Sprouted grains, sourdough breads, extra virgin olive oil, molasses
- Kumquats, tangerines, grapefruit, water chestnuts
Foods to restrict or avoid
- Cheese, eggs, cream, ice cream
- Red meats, nuts, pizzas, shortening, margarine, deep fried foods
- Chilies, and excessively hot, spicy meals
- Raw vegetable juices, refined sugars
- Artificial preservatives, artificial colorings
