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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- “American Journal of Public Health”; Exploring Acupuncture: Ancient Ideas, Modern Techniques; Elizabeth Fee et al.; October 2002 (PDF)
- “American Journal of Public Health”; Exploring Acupuncture: Ancient Ideas, Modern Techniques; Elizabeth Fee et al.; October 2002 (PDF)
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Damp Heat Diet
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a form of alternative or complementary medicine with a long history. In TCM, the foods you eat play a role in keeping you healthy and treating certain conditions. A TCM practitioner may recommend a damp heat diet, for example, if you suffer from inflammation. As with any alternative or complementary medicine, exercise appropriate caution with TCM and always consult a qualified health care provider.
Theory
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the three factors that most affect the balance of yin and yang and the flow of qi are internal emotions, external factors and lifestyle choices including diet.
Identification
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In TCM, dampness is an excess of the water element and heat is an excess of the fire element. Dampness is associated with water retention or swelling and feelings of heaviness or sluggishness. Illnesses associated with dampness include high cholesterol, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer and fibromyalgia. Damp heat conditions may also include inflammation, high blood sugar, urinary tract infections, weight gain and food allergies.
- In TCM, dampness is an excess of the water element and heat is an excess of the fire element.
- Damp heat conditions may also include inflammation, high blood sugar, urinary tract infections, weight gain and food allergies.
Foods to Choose
When a TCM practitioner diagnoses you with a damp heat condition, he may recommend that you increase your consumption of foods thought to relieve dampness and damp heat.
Foods to Avoid
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You may also be asked to avoid cold beverages, fermented foods and foods containing vinegar or yeast.
Warning
Traditional Chinese medicine is a complicated system. Do not attempt to treat yourself with TCM or Chinese herbs, especially if you are under a doctor's care, are taking prescription or over-the-counter medication, or are breastfeeding or pregnant. A balanced diet is best for your health, and you should not make any drastic dietary changes without consulting a qualified health care professional. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can assist you in finding a certified TCM practitioner.
- Traditional Chinese medicine is a complicated system.
- Do not attempt to treat yourself with TCM or Chinese herbs, especially if you are under a doctor's care, are taking prescription or over-the-counter medication, or are breastfeeding or pregnant.
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References
Writer Bio
Stephanie Crumley Hill is a childbirth educator who for more than 20 years has written professionally about pregnancy, family and a variety of health and medical topics. A former print magazine editor, her insurance articles for “Resource” magazine garnered numerous awards. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Georgia.