Balancing Body Temperature: Dietary Tips for Cold and Hot Conditions

Physiological imbalance

Hello Dr.
Lin: I have a cold constitution that generates heat, and I'm unsure how to adjust my constitution through dietary therapy.
Whenever I consume cold or cooling foods, I immediately develop rashes on my hands and feet.
When I eat hot or warming foods, I get acne on my scalp and develop hemorrhoids.
I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Xiao Wen, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/29

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Xiaowen / 50 / Female Online Friend,
1.
Your constitution is quite unique; "consuming cold foods immediately causes hives on your hands and feet, while eating hot and spicy foods leads to acne on your scalp and hemorrhoids." Such a mixed constitution of cold and heat is rarely seen in clinical practice.
2.
The immediate onset of hives on your hands and feet after consuming cold foods is generally indicative of a food allergy, which typically results in hives appearing all over the body or localized to the joints of the hands and feet.
You should keep a record of which cold foods trigger your hives and which hot foods lead to acne and hemorrhoids, and these should be avoided.
3.
In my clinical practice, traditional Chinese medicine treatment often relies on "differentiation of syndromes and treatment" based on the patient's symptoms.
For mixed cold and heat conditions, we administer medications according to the clinical presentation, following the principle of "treating cold with heat and heat with cold." If cold foods cause hives, we would prescribe warming herbs; if hot foods lead to acne and hemorrhoids, we would use cooling and detoxifying herbs, which often yield therapeutic improvements.
4.
For general constitution adjustment, you may consider herbal remedies that expel wind while clearing heat and unblocking the orifices.
It is advisable to engage in regular exercise, manage stress, enjoy steam baths, minimize exposure to air conditioning, and be mindful of allergenic foods to help regulate your constitution.
Wishing you well,
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong
Director, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Fengyuan Hospital
Assistant Professor

Reply Date: 2010/08/29

More Info

Balancing body temperature through dietary adjustments is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health, especially for individuals with specific body constitutions, such as those who are sensitive to cold or heat. In your case, it appears that you have a "cold constitution," which means that your body tends to react negatively to cold or cooling foods, leading to symptoms like skin rashes or discomfort. Conversely, consuming overly warming foods can trigger other issues, such as acne or hemorrhoids.
To address your concerns, it is essential to understand the concept of food energetics, which is the idea that different foods can have warming or cooling effects on the body. Foods that are considered "cooling" include most fruits, raw vegetables, dairy products, and certain grains. On the other hand, "warming" foods typically include meats, spices (like ginger and cinnamon), and cooked vegetables.
Given your sensitivity to cold foods, it would be advisable to focus on warming foods that can help balance your body temperature without exacerbating your symptoms. Here are some dietary tips that may help:
1. Incorporate Warming Foods: Include foods such as ginger, garlic, onions, and spices like black pepper and cinnamon in your meals. These ingredients can help stimulate circulation and generate warmth in the body.

2. Cook Your Vegetables: Instead of consuming raw vegetables, which can be cooling, try steaming, sautéing, or roasting them. Cooking can enhance their warming properties and make them easier to digest.

3. Choose Whole Grains: Opt for warming grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats. These grains provide sustained energy and warmth compared to cold cereals or refined grains.

4. Limit Cold Beverages: Avoid iced drinks and opt for warm beverages like herbal teas or warm water with lemon. This can help maintain your internal body temperature.

5. Moderate Protein Sources: Incorporate moderate amounts of warming proteins such as chicken, lamb, and fish. These can provide essential nutrients while also contributing to a warming effect.

6. Mindful of Dairy: Since dairy can be cooling for some individuals, consider fermented dairy products like yogurt or kefir, which may be easier to digest and less likely to cause discomfort.

7. Balance with Cooling Foods: While focusing on warming foods, it's also important to include some cooling foods in moderation to avoid overheating. For example, you might enjoy small amounts of fruits like berries or melons, which can provide hydration without being overly cooling.

8. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids, but focus on warm or room temperature liquids to avoid shocking your system with cold drinks.

9. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods. Keeping a food diary can help you identify patterns and make informed choices about what to eat.

10. Consult a Professional: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who specializes in dietary therapy. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health needs and body constitution.

In summary, balancing your body temperature through diet involves a careful selection of foods that align with your body's needs. By focusing on warming foods and cooking methods, you can help alleviate your symptoms and promote overall well-being. Remember, individual responses to foods can vary, so it’s essential to find what works best for you.

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