Cheese & Crackers
So many holiday dishes include dairy, the dampest food there is. And cheese is a main stay of holiday appetizers. In days before central heat and extra layer of fat meant heat. In days gone by poor people were skinny, and rich people were plump. Being plump was equated with health since skinny people often didn't make it through the winter. Winter and especially holiday foods, which were expensive and time consuming to make, contained fat or helped to fatten people, up as a matter of survival.
Now holiday foods are cheap, easily obtained, and we have central heat and fleece to keep us warm. People are living longer. As we age digestion can decline, and fattening foods along with much more sedate life styles, far from helping us survive harsh winters, are causing health problems.
Keep in mind, when occasionally indulging in damp foods, a drying food, like rice, helps to counteract its effects. So when serving cheese and crackers, various types and flavors of rice crackers would be a good choice. When serving duck, an elegant rice dish helps prevent phlegm and other health issues related to dampness. If indulging in too much rich food or alcohol, some rice crackers, or a toasted rice tortilla before bed can insure a more comfortable morning.
It is best to minimize damp foods in general, but feast days are an important part of any culture. Holiday foods, that we have grown up with are an important part of celebrating with family and friends. Digestive enzymes are often advisable to include with holiday feasting. And live enzymes, fresh fruits and vegetables, help us digest the food that has had the enzymes cooked out of it.
Enjoy the Holidays!
Health & Happiness,
Nancy Burton, L.Ac.
534 Washington St. Ashland, OR 97520
For Appointments Call: 541-646-0134
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