What comes to mind when you think of yellow? Sunflowers, the school bus or the smiley face? As a food-junkie and a health nut, when I hear the word yellow, savory soy beans, munchy bananas and sweet corn are things that pop into my mind. That's how much I love food. Hopeless? Perhaps.
However, my fondness for yellow foods is fully justified. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is believed to be a unified organic being with organs tied to the five elements, five flavors and five colors. Eating food with a certain color can help regulate and strengthen the corresponding organ.
In TCM, the color yellow corresponds with the spleen. The spleen plays a vital role in regulating red blood cell metabolism. It also plays a regulatory role in our immune systems. Red blood cells deliver oxygen to the body, and the immune system protects us from infections and diseases. The importance of both systems goes without saying.
Whether you believe TCM or not, having a colorful plate of food for dinner is always a good thing. Take a look at following delicious yellow foods that possess health-benefiting properties. Continue to read Causes of Lung Cancer in TCM.
Lemons
Though beautiful on its own right as a garnish for any dish, the nutritional values of lemons are underrated. Lemons do a good job playing the supporting role in our kitchen. But, given the opportunity, they can also shine on the center stage of nutrition.
In 1747, James Lind discovered that vitamin C from citrus fruits helped cure scurvy suffered by seamen. Lemons can also enlighten moods when used in aromatherapy, improve blood circulations and enhance immunity. Moreover, lemons are extremely rich in vitamin C, one of the most potent antioxidants out there that serve to fight premature aging.
The acidity of lemons can be too harsh on our stomachs when consumed in large quantities. Take precautions when eating lemons on their own. Lemons should be treated as icing on the cake and used in moderation. Continue to read TCM Diagnosis for Lung Cancer.
Soy beans
The nutritional value of soy beans are in between that of meat and vegetables. They are a healthy source of protein and are rich in isoflavones. Isoflavones can help relieve certain menopausal symptoms and can act to prevent cancer, slow or reverse the signs of osteoporosis and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
The Asian diet is very rich in soy products. Tofu is probably the most representative product of soybeans. Other soy products include soy sauce, fermented bean paste, natto (a Japanese side dish and a personal favorite) and tempeh (Indonesian soy product, often used as meat substitute in vegetarian dishes.)
The skins of soybeans are high in fiber and should not be thrown away. They can enhance digestion, reduce blood cholesterol and decrease risks of cardiovascular diseases. Soybeans also contain lots of iron, a handy helper to relieve anemia.
Avoid deep-frying or stir-frying soybeans as it prevents absorption of proteins. Those with chronic indigestion or bowel irregularities should avoid consuming too much soybeans. Soy beans contain substances that mimic estrogen. They are widely applied in diets of post-menopausal women to alleviate menopausal-related symptoms. However, consumption of too much of any product, no matter how good it is for you, can be of harm. Remember, moderation is key. Continue to read Chinese medicine Treatment for Lung Cancer.
Bananas
As a good source of sugars and fiber, bananas are ideal for an immediate boost of energy. They are easy to carry, easy to eat and inexpensive compared to other types of fruits.
Bananas are extremely high in potassium, yet low in sodium - this is the golden combination in preventing hypertension. Bananas are also relatively rich in iron, which helps with hemoglobin function and anemia. The rich fiber also helps us stay regular. In addition, consuming bananas can restore potassium that are lost from diarrhea, which depletes the body of important electrolytes including potassium. They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber that puts digestive movement back on the right track.
Bananas are a good source of fructooligosaccharide (long word, huh) that nourishes probiotic (good) bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. In particular, it serves as a substrate for microflora in the large intestine. In addition, daily intake of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, have been linked to a reduced risk of kidney cancer.
Another celebrated health benefits of bananas is their ability to relieve depression. Bananas contain tryptophan, an amino acid that is metabolized to serotonin, which is a mood enhancer. So, next time you are feeling the blues, try not to reach for that tub of ice cream for some comfort; grab a banana instead.
Article source: chinadaily