Spring foods

Foods to eat in Spring

Here are some very beneficial foods recommended in TICM to consume during the springtime in order to best support the Liver and the Gallbladder systems. This can enhance your creativity, your mood, and your overall well being.

Green foods: green is the colour associated with the Liver and also spring. Because we always look to nature for guidance, we consume green foods to help match that vibration. Foods rich in chlorophyll help to awaken and rejuvenate the Liver. Think spirulina, chlorella, parsley, wheat grass, kale, dandelion greens, Swiss chard, asparagus, chives, collard greens and broccoli rabe. Bitter greens such as bitter gourd further help and support the Liver.

Sour foods: lemons, limes and grapefruit to help draw out the fats that could have been stored up during the colder months and help to smooth out Qi. These citrus foods also contain good levels of quinine when you boil and make a refreshing cup of tea.

Radishes: both the radish and radish top are very healing for the Liver. This vegetable is pungent and can breaks down sluggish fluids in the Stomach and intestines, helping the Liver detox. If you can, purchase radish that is black in colour as it will support the Kidney system too.

Bone broth: chicken bone broth from organic, pasture raised poultry supports the Liver in its resurgence, hence the name spring chicken.

Sprouted foods: seeds, grains, peas, beans, and some nuts that sprout.

Now is the time to limit salty foods. Reduce quantities of sodium rich foods and heavy foods which clog the Liver.