How to Eat Like a Taoist

Vitality and health are extremely important to Taoists so what Taoists eat is crucial to their lifestyle. Taoists deem their diet as not only important to their physical health but also their mental and spiritual health. The amount of qi contained in the food they eat is of utmost importance. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Whole grains
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Seeds and nuts
• Soy and tofu
• Herbs
• Herbal tea

1. In essence, Taoism's emphasis is on nature, so food that is not natural is steered clear of in a Taoist diet. Emphasis is put on organic, whole(unprocessed), locally grown foods. Any foods that contain additives, chemicals and toxins are avoided. Also, artificial stimulants like tobacco, alcohol, coffee and sugar are not part of a Taoist diet.
2. Taoists believe that too much raw food creates internal weakness from too much cold energy in the center of the stomach. Overcooked food is also avoided. Stir frying is recommended because the food cooks quickly and the flavors are sealed in with oil. Steaming is preferred over boiling because it conserves more of the nutrients.
3. Fruits should be eaten in small quantities because of they are considered to be Yin, although apples are Yang. It's advised to especially stay away from tropical fruits because they are extremely Yin.
4. Vegetables should only be eaten if they are locally grown and in season. Organic vegetables are preferred because they are grown without chemicals. One exception are nightshade vegetables, which are thought to be deadly. This includes tomatoes, potatoes and aubergines.
5. Herbs are very useful because they add flavor and contain many beneficial qualities. Again, it's important to use only locally grown and organic herbs.
6. Seaweed can be eaten all year long and there are many different varieties available. They also contain an abundance of nutrients, proteins and enzymes.
7. Grains such as brown rice, barley and wheat can be eaten anytime and are valuable ingredients for producing energy.
8. All red and blue meats, including pork, rabbit, snails and the like, should be avoided. Poultry and game birds are ok to eat, as well as fish. However, fish and other seafood should only be eaten once a week because of their high Yin quantity. Some fish like salmon, shark, swordfish and mackerel, are very Yin should be completely avoided.
9. Rock salt should be avoided because it contains little nutritional value. Sea salt, on the other hand, contains many minerals and is OK to eat. Sesame salt is another option that has nutritional value.

Tips & Warnings

• Balancing Yin and Yang in the diet is about avoiding extremes in order to have a balanced diet.