AboutConinyah B. Dew Expertise I can answer questions pertaining to the usage of acupuncture, chinese herbs, and meditation
for the treatment of acute and chronic diseases to include but not limited to low back pain,
headaches, mood disorders, and stroke
Experience Private practice (Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices), Formally Certified Personal Training, Indigenous Energy Studies, personal spiritual practice
Organizations Acupuncture Association of Colorado, West Point Association of Graduates
Education/Credentials Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (Southwest Acupuncture College), Bachelor's of Science with field of study in Chemistry and Life Science (West Point), Master Fitness Trainer certificate (West Point), Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM - national certification board; highest certification available)
Question I have just had acupuncture for a digestive disorder. Basically,
stagnant digestion and some possible blockage to the right of
my belly button. Acupuncturist came up with "heat-phlegm" but
was not too specific about nutritional remedy. (I already had
blood test and ultrasound, both were negative. There is no pain,
just discomfort there. And some weakness of energy. Are there
any specific nutritional and/or herb recommendations for "heat-phlegm"
conditions? And what to avoid? Thanks! I am 59 and generally
excellent health otherwise.
Answer Hello David,
Thank you for your question. There are several dietary recommendations to assist in clearing phlegm-heat. The first would be to avoid greasy, spicy and phlegm (mucus) producing foods. Such foods would include red meats, fried foods of any sort, peppers, refined sugar (to include high fructose corn syrup), dairy products, night shades (potatoes, bell peppers, eggplant) and wheat based products. Now having said this, I do understand that this greatly limits what can be eaten. This dietary recommendation is for the purpose of clearing your condition and not to be maintained indefinitely unless you find it suites you.
The foods you want to lean more towards are blander foods such as rice with little to no season. Sea salt would be the most if absolutely necessary. Oatmeal, kale, broccoli, spinach, amaranth, watermelon, molasses (if a sweetener is necessary and used sparingly), green tea, quinoa (with some walnuts) are good options as well.
I am hesitant to recommend any Chinese formulas without knowing the full composite of your symptoms. I would ask that you consider asking your acupuncturist however about a formula Wen Dan Tang. He/She would need to validate if your symptoms would suggest this formula would be beneficial or not. I would defer to him/her to make that determination.
I hope this information has been helpful. Should you choose to follow the dietary recommendations you should notice two major affects within 2-3 weeks. The first is a lessening of the discomfort you are currently experiencing and the second is an increase in energy. Should you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask. Be well.
Regards,
Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M.
Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices
