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Acupuncture in Del Ray, Alexandria, VA
Spring, Liver, Wood, Greens 04/03/2009
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The season associated with the Liver is spring, a season of active growth and rebirth.    Tap into this energy by eating more leafy green veggies!Chlorophyll is the molecule used by plants to trap the energy of the sun.  The greener the plant, the more chlorophyll it contains.   Green foods benefit the the Liver system in Chinese Medicine.   One of the Liver's many functions is to smooth the flow of Qi in the body.  When the Qi flows smoothly, we can navigate our way through life without stress and tension.  A healthy Liver lets us go with the flow.  This flow becomes obstructed by a diet of heavy foods, packaged foods that tend to be highly processed, filled with chemicals, and barely "food" anymore, intoxicants including excess caffeine and alcohol, and frustration in life (not being able to do what we really want to do).  Is it a wonder that there is so much stress and tension going around, and that we are always being told to eat more vegetables?

 Benefits of eating green veggies:
The bitter flavor drains out excess, burns up fat, and promotes weight loss.
Heals the digestive tract and balance the intestinal flora (prevents candida)
The chlorophyll molecule is almost identical to hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in our blood.  In fact, chlorophyll helps our bodies to build blood, which gives us energy, flexibility, healthy skin and hair, and a relaxed mood.
High in carotenoids, which your body turns into vitamin A. 
The Liver nourishes the eyes, so we must nourish the Liver for healthy eyes.
High levels of B vitamins in raw greens, especially folate, which benefit the eyes, help the body deal with stress, and quintessential for any woman planning a pregnancy.
Often high in iron to build blood.
Cools and calms the Liver (and therefore, you)

About some greens:
Leaf Lettuce:  Contains chlorophyll, iron, and vitamins A and C
Kale: Exceptional source of chlorophyll, calcium, iron, and vitamin A.
Spinach: Rich in iron, chlorophyll, sulfur, and vitamin A Watercress: Rich in vitamin A, chlorophyll, sulfur, and calcium.  

An easy, delicious way to get more raw greens in the diet is with Green Smoothies.  These were popularized by Victoria Boutenko, who used them to heal her family of many diseases.  The sweetness of the fruit in the shakes masks the bitterness of the greens.  Keep in mind that, though the bitter flavor promotes weight loss, the more sweet you add the less you will lose.  The more often you drink these, the less fruit you will need.  Don't be surprised when you start to crave these nutrient packed smoothies. Recipe: In the blender, fill half with fruit and the other half with greens.  You can add a little stevia or honey.  Add enough water to blend (about a cup).  Enjoy!

Recommended combinations: 
You may want to start with strawberry, banana, avocado, spinach.  This is delicious and very sweet. Strawberry, kiwi, spinach Mixed berries and kale or try Victoria Boutenko's favorite 6 leaves of red leaf lettuce 1/4 bunch fresh basil 1/2 lime (juiced) 1/2 red onion 2 celery sticks 1/4 avocado 2 cups water Best of Health,

 


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    Eat With the Seasons: Winter
    Winter is the season of the Water Element, which corresponds to the Kidneys, Bladder, and Reproductive System. This time of year naturally draws us inward to reflect and restore.  Just like the bleak "death" you see outside your window, this is a season for us to decide what we can let go of so you have room to begin new projects in the spring.  Eat warm soups, drink hot tea, and get extra rest.  You'll need the energy for your adventures in the spring and summer.

     

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