Dietary Therapy
Acupuncturists are trained in Oriental nutrition. An integrated approach is used to help each patient discover which foods are best for their specific constitution and health goals. Oriental nutrition looks at the effects that particular foods have on each individual. Foods can provide immediate relief of a condition and promote long term health. For example, if a patient is suffering from a “cold” condition, foods that have a warming or neutral effect on the body will be recommended while cooling foods would be avoided. If a patient has suffered heavy blood loss, foods that build up blood would be recommended.
Each patient is given a customized list of foods to eat in abundance, in moderation, and which foods to avoid. Nutritional counseling always supports the necessity of eating whole foods — those that are minimally processed (have fewer additives, preservatives, and chemicals) and still retain more of their original nutritional value.