FOOD AS MEDICINE

 by Phillip Starr

Basic Chinese medical theory is, in my opinion, seamlessly merged with the culture of that nation (probably more so than the average Chinese citizen suspects). One example is that of their diet. Unlike Westerners who tend to eat on the run and often garf down whatever is quick and easy, the Chinese thoroughly enjoy their native food and take time to adequately prepare good meals.

Although some Western fast-food restaurants can be found (such as McDonalds, KFC, and Pizza Hut) and they're usually rather crowded, most Chinese readily admit that they're very much aware that this kind of food is “bad for the body” and the truth is that they go to them just every now and then rather than on a regular basis; they're regarded as something special that's been imported from the West...a novelty (kind of disappointing to think that these are often held up as “American Food”...).

Traditional Chinese medical theory holds fast to ancient teachings regarding Yin and Yang, the so-called Five Elements, the Five Flavors, and so on. And although the average Chinese housewife cannot necessarily expound on the intricacies of these subjects, they understand something of their essense and utilize them in the preparing of daily meals. For instance, the so-called Five Elements – Earth, Metal, Wood, Fire, and Water - feature certain flavors. These are: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, and Pungent. And each (complete) Chinese meal contains a bit of all five flavors which, they believe, contributes to good overall health. Their food is also their daily “medicine.”

And since good health is necessary in order to keep up daily training, martial arts followers are careful to maintain a good diet. They take their medicine daily.