Hot and Cold Health and Disease

Richard G. Heft Acupuncture Physician (FL, USA 1992- 2002)

Copyright 2009, Richard G. Heft

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the author

Disclaimer

Hot and Cold Health and Disease is a based on Chinese, Ayurvedic and Western medicines, and the questioning and counseling of thousands. Western medical authority does not scientifically recognize either medicine. It considers them more opinion than fact despite the fact that two billion plus people practices them. All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you need medical care. ISBN: 0974-7917-25 (paperback) R. G. Heft Publications rev. 04/04/10 Email: rgheft@netzero.com Tel: 203-615-4436 This book is printed on acid free paper

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Table of Contents

Disclaimer 2 Dedication and Special Thanks 6 Introduction 7

Section I. Philosophy and Diet

Chapter 1 The Way of Thinking 23 Chapter 2 Energetics of Food 27 Chapter 3 Digestion, Spices and Chinese Herbs 41 Chapter 4 Cooking Class 47

Section II. Biology, East and West

Chapter 5 Three Treasures 63 Chapter 6 Blood and Body Fluids 71 Chapter 7 Spleen 81 Chapter 8 Stomach and Small Intestine 89 Chapter 9 Large Intestine and Urinary Bladder 93 Chapter 10 Heart 97 Chapter 11 Liver and Gall Bladder 105 Chapter 12 Lungs 111 Chapter 13 Kidneys 121 Chapter 14 Diagnosis and Treatment 127

Section III. Diseases A- Z

Chapter 15 ”A” Diseases Acne 141 AIDS, HIV 141 Aging 143

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Chapter 15 ”A” Diseases Alzheimer’s 144 Anal fissure 145 Anemia 145 Anger 146 Anxiety 147 Arteries 148 Arthritis 148 Asthma 151 ADD 153 Auto-immune 154 Chapter 16 “B” Diseases Blood 157 Blood Pressure 159 Body Odor 160 Bones 161 Breast lumps 163 Bronchitis 164 Chapter 17 ”C” Diseases Cancer 167 Candidiasis 167 Cellulite 171 Cholesterol 172 Chronic Fatigue 174 Circulation 175 Cirrhosis 177 Cold hands, feet 177 Cold, Flu 179 Constipation 181 Crohn’s Disease 183 Chapter 18 ”D” Diseases Depression 185 Detoxification 188 Diabetes 190 Diarrhea 192 Diuretics 194 Dizziness 194 Dysmenorrhea 195 Chapter 19 “E-F” Diseases Ear Infections 197 Eczema 199 Edema 201 Endometriosis 202 Eyes 202 Fear 203 Fever 204 Fibrocystic breasts 204 Fibroids 205 Fibromialgia 205 Forgetfulness 207 Frigidity 208 Chapter 20 “G-H” Diseases Gall Stones 209 GERD, GIRD 210 Gout 212 Hair Loss 213 Hearing Loss 214 Hepatitis 217 Herpes 219 Hot Flashes 219 Hysteria 220 Chapter 21 “I- J” Diseases Infertility 223 Inflammation 223 Insomnia 224 Irritable Bowel 226 Itching 228 Jaundice 228

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Chapter 22 “K-O” Diseases Kidney Stones 229 Leukemia 230 Miscarriage 230 M. Sclerosis 231 Nails 233 Nausea 234 Numbness 235 Obesity 236 Osteoporosis 238 Chapter 23 ”P-R” Diseases . Pediatric 241 Perspiration 243 Plantar F 244 Pregnancy 247 PMS 249 Prostate 250 Psoriasis 251 Rashes 251 Restless Leg 252 Chapter 24 ”S-Z” Diseases Sex 255 Shaking, tremors 257 Sinusitis 258 Skin 259 Sleep Apnea 261 Snoring 262 Sweaty hands 263 Teeth, abscess 263 Tinnitus 266 Tumors 267 Urinary Infection 267 Varicose 269 Vitamins 270 Weight loss 270 Yeast inf. 273 Chapter 25 Case Histories 275

Section IV. Daily Practices

Chapter 26 The Way of Breathing 283 Chapter 27 Internal Exercises 287 Chapter 28 Meditation 301 Chapter 29 Spiritual Practices 307

Resources

Appendix 313 Bibliography 315 About the Author 317

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Dedication To the memory of my mother who said hello to everyone

Special Thanks 1. India and China for preserving their rich and ancient cultures 2. Dan Nevel, Acupuncture Physician for inspiring me to study traditional Chinese medicine, attend acupuncture school (great education) 3. Dr. Richard Brown and Nancy Brown, Acupuncture Physician, owners, teachers, Acupuncture and Massage College (formerly Acupuncture Acupressure Institute), S. Miami, FL 4. Camillo Sanchez, Acupuncture Physician, my first year teacher for teaching, instilling the basics 5. Self-Realization Fellowship for continuing the work of Paramahansa Yogananda 6. Lightning Source Inc. (printing and distributing company) the independent author’s best friend

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INTRODUCTION Life, health, disease, happiness, sadness, etc. are a function of body, mind and spirit (soul of God). The body (structure, function) builds up and breaks down (cleanses) largely according to food, nutrients, to which, there are only two: building (hot, yang) and cleansing (cold, yin). The correct balance produces the correct amount of blood, structure and function, where the body can thrive. Any amounts, greater or less, in the extreme, tend to cause disease via too much or too little blood, structure and function. Simple diet, common herbs and exercise can prevent and or cure most disease, extend life, improve temperament, etc. but not overcome aging, and the ultimate deterioration, death of the body, nor develop the mind intellectually or spiritually to the extent that daily meditation, reading of scripture, prayer, kindness, generosity and devotion to God can. The highest health, goal is spiritual development, communion with God.

The body builds up ↑↑↑

and breaks down ↓↓↓

Building nutrients Protein (amino acids) Fat (cholesterol, lipids)

Cleansing nutrients Water Minerals, vitamins, enzymes

Building foods Red meat, chicken, turkey Fish, eggs, hard cheese Less building Beans, nuts, seeds Milk, yogurt (any kind)

Cleansing foods Salt, bitter herbs Sugar (any kind) Fruit (especially tropical) Vegetables (especially raw) Grains (fiber, sugar)

Build, thicken, fuel, heat Reduce, cleanse, cool, moisten 7

Every food, meal and diet is a combination of opposites: building and cleansing nutrients, with one opposite, nutrient always in excess. There are no neutral foods, meals, diets, etc. Every time the body interacts with hot or cold, in whatever form, it becomes hotter or colder, for better (health) or worse (disease).

Hot, building Less building, cold Breakfast Breakfast High protein, high fat Eggs, toast, jelly and tea Vegetable omelet, fruit, tea Hamburger, roll, vegetables, fruit Chicken, rice, vegetables, fruit Cheese, bread, vegetables, fruit

Low protein, low fat, damp Milk (any kind) Milk, cereal, nuts, fruit Yogurt and fruit Egg whites, banana and bagel Cottage cheese and fruit

Low protein, low fat Rice, beans, vegetables, fruit Oatmeal, raisins and walnuts Bread and peanut butter

Cold, damp Protein shakes Fruit, especially tropical Juices, shakes, smoothies

Lunch, dinner Lunch, dinner Hamburger, fries, salad, soda Chicken, noodles, vegetables, fruit Turkey, bread, vegetables, fruit Pizza, cheese salad, fries, soda Fish, roll, salad, fruit, water

Tuna, bread, salad, coffee Salad, cottage cheese, fruit Yogurt, fruit, nuts, coffee Milk and cereal Protein shakes, fruits

Building diets Cleansing diets American diet high protein, high fat, high starch, sugar, overeating and low vegetables, fruit Zone similar to middle diet Macrobiotic vegan + fish Lacto ovo vegetarian dairy + eggs + vegan + spices Hot lacto vegetarian cooked

Fruitarian fruit only Sproutarian vegan + sprouts + juices + raw, fermented foods Raw foods uncooked foods Vegan no animal food, byproducts, just fruit, vegetables, beans, grains, etc. Cold lacto vegetarian vegan + dairy + raw foods

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Protein and fat build, thicken, fuel and heat. Low protein, low fat (milk, yogurt, soft cheese, beans, etc) diets, in the extreme, thin and weaken all structure, function, especially digestion. Digestion transforms food, nutrients into blood. Blood, nutrients build and cleanse all structure, function. Too many cold, damp foods, drinks, in the extreme, tend to dilute and weaken digestion. Weak digestion dilutes and slows the movement of food, reducing nutrient absorption, thinning and weakening the blood, circulation, while increasing waste product, as whatever food not digested, absorbed becomes waste.

Weak digestion Deficient heat Dietary tendencies → Symptoms Cold, damp, sweet Cold, damp, weak, slow Low protein, low fat Milk (any kind), yogurt, soft cheese, ice cream High carbohydrate Bread, salads, tropical fruits, juices, smoothies, shakes, sodas, ice water Cold drinks drinking eight glasses of water per day Eating late overeating

→ → → →

Abdominal bloating, gas, nausea, heartburn, loose stools, diarrhea, fatigue, pallor, cold limbs, pain, mucous, phlegm, cysts, lumps, edema, cellulite, snoring, sleep apnea, white vaginal discharge, yeast infection, autoimmune illnesses, frigidity, depression, fear

The liver stores, cleanses (removes excess protein, fat, cholesterol, etc.) and releases the blood. Too much protein, fat (thick, hard, sticky nutrients), especially animal, in the extreme, tends to thicken clog and weaken the liver. Less protein, fat and cholesterol are removed. More stays in the blood (clots, high cholesterol), arteries (plaque, atherosclerosis, etc.), skin, etc.

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Clogged, narrow and hardened arteries (clots, plaque, atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis) stagnate and reduce circulation, blood, especially to the extremities: head, arms and legs. Reduced circulation, less blood tends to cause fatigue, dizziness, insomnia and pain, inflammation, numbness, shaking, etc. in the bones, joints, muscles: neuralgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Restless Leg Syndrome, Peripheral Artery Disease, etc.

Overbuilt liver Excess heat (high pitta) High protein, fat and starch → Thick, hard, hot, stagnant Too much protein and fat Red meat, pork, wild game, veal, chicken, turkey, hard pizza, lasagna, fries, chips, oil Alcohol, coffee, smoking Not enough vegetables, fruit Small breakfast, big lunch, big dinner, late night eating

→ → → →

High cholesterol, tumors, plaque, clots, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, chest pain, angina, red face, red eyes, bitter taste, arthritis, dysmenorrhea, insomnia, sweaty hands and feet, psoriasis, tinnitus (loud)

The heart circulates the blood via the arteries, veins and capillaries. Too much protein and fat thickens and clogs the blood, arteries, reducing circulation. It also thickens, tightens the body.

Overbuilt heart Excess heat High protein, fat and sugar → Thick, hard, hot, dry Too much protein and fat Red meat, pork, wild game, veal, chicken, turkey, hard cheese, pizza, lasagna, fried foods, chips, oil Alcohol, coffee, smoking Too little vegetables, fruit Big lunch, big dinner

→ → → →

High cholesterol, plaque, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, clots, high blood pressure, tension, insomnia, red face, chest pain, angina, stroke, paralysis, tongue ulcers, poor circulation, arthritis, hair loss, anxiety

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Too little protein and fat, in the extreme, thins, weakens the blood, heart, circulation, which in turn, thins, weakens, dries, inflames, pains and cools all structure, function.

Under built heart Deficient heat Cold, damp vegetarian → Cold, deficient Low protein, low fat Milk, yogurt, soft cheese, ice cream, beans, nuts, seeds High carbohydrate Salads, tropical fruits, juices, shakes, smoothies, sodas, cold drinks, sugar

→ → →

Poor circulation, fatigue, pallor, cold hands and feet, dizziness, shaking, pain, inflammation, sweating easily, easily startled, dream disturbed sleep, poor memory, pale tongue

Cold vegan, fruitarian → Cleansing, cooling diets

The kidneys store jing (sexual essence). Jing controls all structure, function, especially the marrow, bones, spinal chord, brain and sexual organs. Too little protein and fat and or too much sex, drugs, alcohol and caffeine weaken drain the kidneys, jing.

Deficient kidneys Deficient jing Dietary tendencies → Symptoms Cold damp vegetarian → Thin, weak, cold, dry Low protein, low fat Milk, ice cream, yogurt, cottage cheese, beans, nuts, High carbohydrate Bread, salads, tropical fruits, juices, shakes, smoothies, sodas, cold drinks, sugar Coffee, caffeine, smoking Excessive sex

→ → → →

Low blood pressure, anemia, fatigue, pallor, coldness, pain, dizziness, shaking, thin, dry or cracked, skin, hair and nails; premature hair and bone loss, infertility, night sweats, malar flush, neuralgia, depression, fear hysteria, forgetfulness, senility

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There are only two diseases: excess and deficiency

Excess Deficiency High protein, high fat Low protein, low fat Swollen liver, clots, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, poor circulation, arthritis, gout, RLS, dark complexion, purple lips, nails, dysmenorrhea, acne, tumors, psoriasis, cancer

Fatigue, pallor, cold hands, cold feet, dizziness, shaking, pain, sweating, easily startled, dream disturbed sleep, poor memory, poor circulation, arthritis, autoimmune illnesses, pale tongue, depression, fear

I was a licensed Acupuncture Physician (FL 1992-2002) and owner, operator of a small health food store, Food and Thought, Hollywood, FL 1984-2001. For seventeen years, I questioned, and counseled my customers (400+ per week), many of whom I saw regularly. I always asked the same question, “What do you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner?” In the beginning, I was confused and overwhelmed by the variety of symptoms, diets, herbs, etc., but after awhile I got it. There were only two nutrients, foods, herbs, symptoms, diseases, etc: hot and cold. Those that ate too many building (hot, yang) foods, herbs, etc. tended to develop overbuilt, thick, hard, hot symptoms, diseases. Those that ate too little building and too much cleansing (cold, yin) tended to develop symptoms, diseases that were under built, thin, soft, loose, cold, weak, damp, etc. I also discovered realized that there was only one body, biology, and therefore only one way to eat, exercise, meditate, sleep, etc. I developed one diet via a combination of Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines, diets based on the body’s natural nutritional composition, ratio of building to cleansing nutrients.

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This body’s natural and universal composition, ratio of building to cleansing nutrients is approximately 1:2, one part building and two parts cleansing. Any other ratio, greater or less, too much or too little building or cleansing, in the extreme, tends to cause disease. The middle diet, meal plan is constructed accordingly.

Human body 1/3 Building 33% 2/3 Cleansing 67% Protein 19% Fat 14%

Water 63% Minerals 4% Vitamins, enzymes <1%

Middle diet, meal plan Breakfast, lunch and dinner + +/-+ +/-+/-

1/3 Protein and fat 1/3 Grains (whole, cracked, noodles, bread) 1/3 Vegetables, cooked, raw (3-5) and fruit (1) Spices (use several at a time, in cooking) Soup (in the beginning) and or tea (at the end)

The two most important food groups are protein and fat, and vegetables and fruit. Protein and fat build and fuel. Vegetables and fruits cleanse. Grains although cleansing, when ground into flour (bread, cookies, pretzels, etc.) tend to paste and clog the intestines and can therefore be omitted from the diet if trying to cleanse, remove excess paste, lose weight. All food groups are adjustable. The order of eating, digestion is not. Eat from hot (building) to cold (cleansing). Soup, protein and fat stimulate digestion (as do cooked foods and spices) and are eaten first, followed by grains, vegetables and fruit. Fruits and desserts are always eaten last, followed by tea (cleansing). Stimulate digestion in the beginning, and cool, cleanse in the end.

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The middle diet, meal plan has two variations to counter the two disease extremes. Both variations are temporary once health, balance restore at which time the middle diet resumes Variation #1 is the colder middle diet for overbuilt hot conditions. It is vegetarian in nature, more fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts, seeds, dairy and eggs (not considered animal) and significantly less red meat, pork, chicken, turkey, fried foods to break down, eliminate excess fat, cholesterol, arterial plaque, tumors, uric acid, etc. Fasting one day a week on fruit juice helps. Colder middle diet, meal plan twice daily 1/4 Protein and fat

1/4 Grain

1/2 Vegetables & fruit

Increase hard cheese, beans, nuts and seeds (high in HDL) Supplement with small amounts: eggs, chicken and or turkey

+/- whole, cracked grains, millet, barley, brown, white rice, oatmeal, noodles

Increase raw (cabbage, celery), cooked broccoli, carrots with tops, cauliflower, hard squash, parsnips, etc.*

Decrease, eliminate red meat, pork, pizza, fried foods, alcohol

Decrease cookies, chips, pastries, junk

Increase fruit *Organic is the best quality

Spices, herbs (bitter) and or tea (peppermint) Condiments: soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, mustard, etc Variation #2 is the hotter middle diet designed to counter under built, cold, weak conditions. It is hotter, more building (animal protein, fat, cooked foods, spices, etc.) and less cold, damp (soft dairy, ice cream, salads, tropical fruits, juices, smoothies, cold drinks and sugar).

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Hotter middle diet, meal plan twice daily 1/3 Protein and fat

1/3 Grain

1/3 Vegetables & fruit

Increase hard cheese, eggs, chicken, turkey or red meat Fish is questionable: mercury unsanitary farming.

Increase cracked grains (white rice, oatmeal, etc.), noodles

Increase cooked vegetables: roots, round and leafy Decrease salads, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant

Decrease milk, yogurt, soft cheeses, ice cream, fried foods

Decrease bread cookies, pastries, pretzels, chips

Increase fruit Eat with meals containing protein, fat. Do not avoid fruit. Decrease tropical fruits, juices, cold drinks, soda

Spices (use several), herbs (Siberian ginseng) and or tea (green) Condiments: soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar The middle diet and its two variations while balanced are still extreme, relative to the way most people eat. Healthy diets not only restore health via the growth of new tissue but also cleanse old, diseased tissue and poisons. The sicker your body, past diet, the faster you will cleanse, release poisons (toxins) into your blood, liver, lungs and kidneys (cleansing organs), the worse you feel, which is why it good to occasionally widen out cheat on some of your old foods. You have plenty of time to get healthy, just as you had plenty of time to get sick. Asian and many American restaurants regularly serve this diet, in one form or another. Most Asian restaurants will specially prepare your food, steamed with the sauce on the side if that is your wish. Health and disease always determine the menu. Health tends to widen the menu while disease tends to restrict. Disease, suffering is often the best teacher, as it speaks loudly, painfully.

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All disease is defined by its symptoms. All symptoms are defined, produced by biological structures and their associated functions. All structures, functions are nutrient, food, herb, exercise, energy specific. They also work together and many times share similar symptoms, diseases. Many arthritic and autoimmune diseases: Plantar Fasciitis, Restless Leg Syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromialgia, Lupus and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome share similar symptoms, locations (pain, inflammation, redness, weakness, coldness, numbness or shaking in the extremities, arms, legs) and diets. Anemic, low protein, low fat (milk, yogurt, ice cream, beans, nuts, etc) and high carbohydrate (salads, tropical fruits, juices, smoothies, shakes, sodas and sugar) diets, in the extreme, tend to weaken digestion, elimination, blood, circulation, etc. Weak, thin, low protein, low fat blood tends to dry, inflame, pain and shake the bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves, etc. Many women tend to suffer arthritis and autoimmune illnesses via the tendency to eat low protein, low fat and high carbohydrate diets. High protein, high fat diets, (red meat, pork, chicken, fried foods, etc.) in the extreme (years, decades), tend to thicken and stagnate the blood (high cholesterol. clots) and arteries (plaque, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure) reducing circulation, blood flow, especially to the extremities, producing blood deficiency symptoms (pain, dryness, inflammation, weakness, etc.). It is a common pathology especially among men, as many tend to eat high protein, fat and starch diets. All disease, symptoms tend to occur in stages. Stage 1 is cause, which, in general, is poor diet. Poor diet weakens digestion (stage 2), elimination (stage 3), blood (stage 4), circulation (stage 5) and organ function (stage 6, autoimmune illnesses). The stages can vary energetically. The beginning stages of most autoimmune illnesses tend to be cold, damp, while the latter, dry, deficient.

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There are only two kinds of disease: acute and chronic. Acute diseases (common cold, sprains, etc.) are sudden, happen quickly and generally curable if treated in the beginning, day one or two. Chronic diseases take months, years and or decades to develop, and consequently months, years to heal. There are no quick, easy solutions, magic pills, herbs, drugs, surgery, etc. that will cure chronic disease in a short amount of time. They may slow but not cure, as curing is not a question of remedies but instead daily habits (diet, exercise, sleep). The ultimate daily habit for better or worse is thinking, discriminating between good (positive) and bad (negative) habits. The strength of the cure (food, herbs, drugs, etc.) depends on the strength, length of the disease. Chronic diseases require simple cures (diet and herbs) not complex formulas. Diet is very powerful but sometimes not powerful enough, which is why you also have to be practical and realize your limitations as good, well-intentioned ideas, actions, can sometimes have wrong, seriously painful consequences. In my twenties, on a yearly basis, I used to get tonsillitis, strep throat. In 1979, I got it bad. I tried treating it with diet, herbs and acupuncture. Nothing worked. Around the fifth, sixth day, in addition to intense pain, I started hallucinating, seeing ghosts, especially during the night, early morning hours. By the eighth day, I could barely talk or swallow. My left tonsil, completely covered with white streptococcus was swollen twice its size and blocking my throat. I went, ran to the doctor. He yelled at me, telling me how foolish I was (he was right) that I was seriously ill. He gave me a shot of penicillin. Twenty minutes later, when I arrived home, the swelling and strep had completely disappeared. The next day when I saw the doctor, he was amazed that I had healed so quickly, that mine was the worst case of tonsillitis he had ever seen.

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He told me how lucky I was that I did not seriously hurt myself (burst tonsil, death). Everything, including natural therapies, personal philosophies, etc. has its limitations. Not seeing a doctor would have been a big mistake. “Pride cometh before the fall”. The following is my story. At age three, I knew I was going to be a “doctor” despite disliking doctors (needles). At age ten (1962) and lasting the next 17 years was another awakening, my mother’s breast cancer, treatment and subsequent side effects: radical mastectomy (removal of entire breast and surrounding tissue), extensive radiation and mega-chemotherapy. I accompanied her on her weekend trips into the city, sat in the hospital, radiation ward watching her and others, wheeled in and out, the out always devastatingly worse. She suffered greatly, severe edema (elephant arms), insomnia, depression, disfigurement, etc. Her original wound, surgery, radiation burn never healed. It always bled. I took my dream to the University of Pittsburgh (1971-1974). I took all the required sciences. After two years, I became disenchanted with the program, as I could not understand its relationship, importance to health. I felt I was going in the wrong direction and changed my major to political science. In 1973, I read Be Here Now by Ram Dass (Dr. Richard Alpert). It changed my life. The book told the story of his transformation from Western Psychologist to the Hindu religion. I cannot say that I understood everything I read, but what I did understand were the sections on diet and yoga. I changed my diet to vegetarian and started practicing Hatha (postural) yoga including deep abdominal breathing, daily for the next five years. The changes were immediate and positive. My skin became clearer. I had greater energy and was more relaxed. I also started reading more books on: diet, nutrition, herbs, etc. Most were anti cancer, heart disease, high protein, high fat, animal foods, and pro vegetarian. I grew up on high protein, high fat, bread, noodles, vegetables, fruit, etc.

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The change, transition to low protein, low fat and high carbohydrate diets: lacto ovo vegetarian, lacto vegetarian, vegan, raw foods, fruitarian, sproutarian and macrobiotic (10 years), was not too difficult. I ate less animal and more fruit, vegetables, beans, grains, etc. I made these changes over a fifteen year period (1973- 1988). For the first five years, I felt great as I eliminated all my excess fat, cholesterol, water, etc. Then I got worse over the next several years suffering severe weight loss, impotence, tonsillitis, hair loss, insomnia and eczema. Despite my “vast” knowledge, I had gone from one extreme (overbuilt, high protein, high fat) to the other (under built, low protein, low fat). I did not know what I was doing. I needed professional help, medical guidance, which was why I chose traditional Chinese medicine as it placed more emphasis on diet, exercise, sex, etc. unlike Western allopathic medicine (drugs, surgery, and radiation). All medicine has its place, the center, director of which is the patient (chooses the treatment). Health is common sense. The body is made from food. Exercise and drugs do not cure high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, etc. Less animal protein, fat and more vegetables and fruit do. Exercise, herbs, drugs and good thoughts do not build blood, cure anemia, thin skin, hair, infertility, etc. Red meat, eggs, chicken, turkey, cheese, etc. do. I once counseled a man, early thirties, pale, low energy who had come to my store to buy iron. His Chinese acupuncturist (also an M.D., well known, respected) had diagnosed him as blood deficient, anemic and recommended iron. I told him I was also an acupuncturist, more recent, would he mind answering a few questions? How long had he been seeing the doctor? (6 months) What happened six months ago? (New girlfriend: vegetarian). He had stopped eating meat, chicken, eggs, etc. and had become weak, tired, pale and anemic.

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I told him that his diet was anemic: extremely low protein, fat; that he needed to resume eating meat, eggs, chicken, turkey, cooked vegetables, etc. etc. to rebuild blood, energy, not iron supplements (65% of my business was supplements). He thanked me for the advice, bought the iron and asked me what I thought of his doctor, acupuncturist. I told him I would have been more impressed if his doctor had told him to stop at Burger King first before coming to the store; as needles, herbs, supplements do not build blood (TCM). Even the best make simple mistakes, which is why you always (a) get a second opinion and most importantly (b) educate yourself, be your own expert, which is why I wrote the book, unless you want someone else taking care of your health. Education and simple diet not clever remedies, titles, etc. cures disease. Be like the tortoise and not the hare. The tortoise, slow steady pace of daily diet always wins the race. The hare (short cuts, quick cures) always loses, unless the race is short (acute illness: common cold, sore throat, muscle sprain, etc.).

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Section I. Philosophy and Diet

Chapter 5 The Way of Thinking 23 Chapter 6 Energetics of Food 27 Chapter 7 Digestion, Spices and Chinese Herbs 41 Chapter 8 Cooking Class 47

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Every night you go to sleep Every morning you wake up Feeling refreshed, rejuvenated What happens during sleep Can also happen while awake

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Chapter 1

The Way of Thinking

Everything, all matter is a manifestation of energy. The body, blood, organs, glands, bones, brain, nerves, skin, muscles, tendons, mucous, sweat, urine, nutrients, food, herbs, atoms, elements, planets, stars, etc. are held together, defined by energy. Energy has a dual nature as it builds up (hot, yang) and breaks down (cold, yin); causing all matter, including the body to have this same duality. Everything is a combination, balance of opposites (building up and breaking down) with one opposite always in excess. There is nothing neutral. The body, life is energetically more building (hot) than cleansing (cold). The mind (consciousness) is more spiritual (thoughts, energy, God) than material (body, senses, possessions). Manipulation of energy via food, herbs, exercise, thoughts, relationships, etc. is the key to controlling all change: health, disease, happiness, sadness, etc. The biggest change is always thought. You are what you think.

Hot (building) Cold (cleansing) E N E R G Y

Builds up, thickens Hardens, tightens Heats, dries Expands, moves fast Rises, moves up and out

ENERGY

Breaks down, softens Thins, loosens Cools, moistens Contracts, moves slow Sinks, moves down and in

FOOD

Protein and fat Red meat, chicken, turkey Fish, eggs, cheese Bean, nuts and seeds

FOOD

Water, minerals, vitamins Fruit, especially tropical Vegetables, especially raw Grains, soft dairy (mild)

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Everything is a product of cause and effect. Every time, the body interacts with hot (building, yang, male, fire, etc.) or cold (cleansing, yin, female, water, etc.) in whatever form, it becomes hotter or colder, for better, or worse. A hot cause (high protein, high fat, alcohol, smoking, etc.) tends to have a hot effect (overbuilt, thick, hard diseases). A cold cause (low protein, low fat, cold drinks, sugar, etc.) tends to have a cold effect (under built, cold, deficient diseases). Like causes like Health and disease are not accidents, random events but instead positive and negative outcomes, results of personal thoughts and actions. Positive thoughts, actions have positive outcomes, while negative thoughts, actions, negative outcomes, results. In Ayurvedic medicine, theory, the union of Purusha (Primal Spirit, energy) and Prakruti (Great Nature, matter) produces the three Gunas (qualities) of life. “The gunas of Nature- her qualities, modes of expression- are sattva (positive or elevating); rajas (neutral, activating); and tamas (negative, obstructing). Sattva produces Godward-leading qualities; rajas, materially, progressive qualities; and tamas, evil- and ignorance-producing qualities.” Paramahansa Yogananda, Bhagavad Gita, page 339. Sattva is the highest, preferred quality of mind, lifestyle, diet, representing spirit, light, intelligence, perception and clarity. Tamas is the lowest representing the body, darkness, resistance and degeneration. Rajas is activity, mind, energy that can be directed up (sattva, spirit) or down (tamas, body). The three Gunas produce the five elements, stages of matter (earth, water, fire, air and either). The five elements produce the three Doshas (constitutions): Vata, Pitta, Kapha, and the five major organ systems (TCM). For more information, please read Ayurvedic Healing by Dr. David Frawley, O.M.D.

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3 Gunas 1. Sattva Ether (thought) spirit ↑ 2. Rajas Fire mind ↑ 3. Tamas Earth body ↑

5 Elements 1. Ether Sattva Cervical ↑ 2. Air Sattva and Rajas Dorsal ↑ 3. Fire Rajas Lumbar ↑ 4. Water Rajas and Tamas Sacral ↑ 5. Earth Tamas Coccyx ↑

3 Doshas 1. Vata Ether and air 2. Pitta Fire and an aspect of water 3. Kapha Water and earth

Four Energetic Extremes Ayurveda Traditional Chinese Medicine 1. Vata Deficient, cold, weak, dry, airy 2. Pitta Excess heat, overbuilt, hot, damp 3. Kapha Excess cold, damp 4. Vata kapha Deficient, cold, damp, dry

Disease: Excess heat Disease: Deficient heat Overbuilt, thick, hot, damp Cold, damp, dry, weak Liver congestion, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, stones, fixed pain, insomnia, dysmenorrhea, acne, dark complexion, purple lips, nails, tumors, psoriasis, cancer

Abdominal bloating, gas, nausea, loose stools, mucous, phlegm, cysts, lumps, vaginal discharges, yeast infections edema, cellulite, anemia, pallor, fatigue, thin, dry hair, skin, nails, bones, infertility, miscarriage, autoimmune disease

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Hot (yang) and cold (yin) and vata, kapha and pitta identification of symptoms, diet, herbs, etc. are a simple diagnosis and basis for most treatment plans. There are only two treatment plans (colder and hotter middle diets), as there are only two disease extremes: overbuilt and under built as well as one balance, health (1/3 building and 2/3 cleansing). All chronic (long lasting) symptoms, diseases take time (months, years, decades) to develop and consequently months, years to treat, cure, to replace the bad, old, diseased tissue, habits, etc. with new, healthy (in with the good, out with the bad). It is something the body always does (while charged, enlivened with spirit). Simple diet, daily exercise, sunshine, positive attitude, etc. can cure most disease, but not overcome the ultimate deterioration, death of the body mind, unlike the spirit (soul of God), which is eternal. Spiritual development is the ultimate health, which is why scripture, prayer, meditation, and service are so important, as you cannot eat or exercise your way to heaven. The more you focus on your body, senses, intellect, possessions, etc., the sicker, unhappier you become. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 The closer you come to the realization that you are a child, son or daughter of God the quicker your everlasting happiness, bliss, love, etc. The ultimate pair, battle of opposites is good and evil in everything we say and do (good and bad foods, thoughts, etc.). “To be an emperor of the whole earth is not the highest goal man can aim for, because he has to leave it all at death; but to possess cosmic consciousness, oneness with God- the Creator who is able to materialize worlds out of ideas- is an everlasting power given to all supremely advanced souls in the spiritual path.” Paramahansa Yogananda, Bhagavad Gita, page 149

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Chapter 2

Energetics of Food

All matter (solid, liquid and gas) is created by energy. Energy holds together, builds up and breaks down, defines all matter, including the human body. The body (structure and function) builds up and breaks down largely according to food, nutrients to which there are only two: building (hot, yang) and cleansing (cold, yin). Building nutrients, foods build, thicken, fuel and heat. Cleansing nutrients, foods, reduce, cleanse, cool and moisten. The correct amount of building and cleansing foods, nutrients build and maintain the correct amount of blood, structure and function where the body can thrive. Any amounts, greater or less, in the extreme, tend to cause disease via too much or too little blood, structure and function.

Nutrition, Diet and Energy

Hot (building) Cold (cleansing) E N E R G Y

Builds up, thickens Hardens, tightens Heats, dries Expands, moves fast Rises, moves up and out

ENERGY

Breaks down, softens Thins, loosens Cools, moistens Contracts, moves slow Sinks, moves down and in

F O O D

Protein and fat Red meat, chicken, turkey Fish, eggs, cheese Bean, nuts and seeds Cooked foods Spices, ginseng

FOOD

Water, minerals, vitamins Fruit, especially tropical Vegetables, especially raw Grains, soft dairy (mild) Raw, uncooked foods Salt, bitter herbs

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Every food, meal and diet is a combination of opposites: building and cleansing nutrients, with one opposite, nutrient, always in excess. There are no neutral foods, meals, diets, genders, climates, diseases, emotions, colors, etc.

Building (hot) Less building (cold) Breakfast Breakfast High protein, high fat Eggs, bacon, toast, jelly and tea Vegetable omelet, fruit, tea Hamburger, roll, vegetables, fruit Chicken, noodles, vegetables, fruit Fish, rice, vegetables, fruit

Low protein, low fat, damp Milk (any kind) Milk, cereal, nuts, fruit, sugar Yogurt and fruit Cottage cheese and fruit Egg whites, banana and bagel

Low protein, low fat Rice, beans, vegetables, fruit Oatmeal, raisins and walnuts Any hot cereal Bread and butter

Cold, damp, sweet Protein shakes Fruit, especially tropical Juice, shakes, smoothies Pastries, sugar

Lunch, dinner Lunch, dinner Hamburger, roll, fries, salad Chicken, rice, vegetables, fruit Fish, salad, potato, tea Lasagna, salad, soda Turkey sub, fries, salad, water Cheese sandwich, salad, coffee

Tuna, bread, salad, juice Salad, cottage cheese, fruit Yogurt, fruit, nuts Milk and cereal Protein shakes Fruit only

Building diets Cleansing diets American diet high protein, high fat, high starch, sugar, low vegetables, fruit Zone similar to middle diet Macrobiotic vegan + fish, fermented foods, seaweeds Lacto ovo vegetarian vegan + dairy + eggs Lacto vegetarian vegan + dairy

Fruitarian only fruits Sproutarian Vegan, raw + sprouts, fermented foods Raw foods uncooked food Vegan fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and grains; no animal foods, byproducts Cold lacto vegetarian vegan + dairy + raw foods

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Building (hot, yang) and cleansing (cold, yin), too much and too little, are the key words that identify all structure, function, food, herbs, climate, gender, etc.

Overbuilt Under built Too much protein and fat

Red meat, pork, turkey, chicken, hard cheese, eggs

Too little protein and fat

High cholesterol Clots, tumors, cancer

Blood Thin blood Anemia

Arteriosclerosis Atherosclerosis Poor circulation Angina, stroke Arthritis, insomnia

Heart Arteries, veins Capillaries Circulation Sleep

Poor circulation Numbness, shaking Inflammation, pain Bruising, bleeding Arthritis, insomnia

Congested, swollen High cholesterol Atherosclerosis Uric acid, gout

Liver Blood cleansing Fat digestion

Inability to digest fat High cholesterol Bloating Gas

Dry stools Constipation

Large intestine Loose stools Constipation

Arthritis Pain Inflammation

Bones Ligaments Tendons, muscles

Arthritis Osteoporosis Breaks bones easily

Dysmenorrhea Sexual aggression Tumors, cancer

Reproduction Sex organs

Infertility, miscarriage Short-term pregnancy Frigidity, impotence

Dry, scaly, oily Acne, warts, psoriasis

Skin Thin, cracked Eczema

Irritability Anger, violence

Emotions Depression Anxiety, fear

Hot, full, damp Overbuilt, pitta

Energy Cold, empty, dry Under built, vata

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Animal foods, red meat, wild game, chicken, turkey, fish, hard cheese and eggs are high in saturated fat unlike soft dairy, beans, nuts and seeds (unsaturated fat). Saturated fat, in excess, increases cholesterol, plaque, LDL, VLDL, atherosclerosis, tumors, etc. Too much protein and fat, especially animal, in the extreme, tends to thicken blood (clots, high cholesterol), which in turn, thickens narrows and hardens the arteries (plaque, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure) stagnating and reducing the flow of blood, especially to the extremities: head, arms and legs. Decreased circulation produces blood deficiency symptoms: pain, weakness, inflammation, heat, cold, numbness, shaking, etc. Protein and fat stimulate the stomach production of hydrochloric acid. Too much, especially in conjunction with starch over stimulate, burn and clog and the stomach (heartburn, ulcers, nausea). Animal protein, fat is difficult to digest. One animal food per meal is easier to digest than two or three. Too much animal food, fat and oil tends to clog, overheat and foul the large intestine weakening, slowing and fouling elimination (dry stools, constipation, foul odor, tumors and or cancer). The waste product of animal foods is more nitrogenous, toxic, stinky than fruits, vegetables, grains, etc. Too many animal and or hot foods, drinks tend to overheat, excite the brain (irritability, anger, wild thoughts, insomnia, etc.) and sex organs (aggression, nymphomania, violence). Too little protein and fat weakens and slows digestion (abdominal bloating, gas, pain, burping.), nutrient absorption, blood (anemia), skin, hair (thin, cracked), muscles (sagging), bones, nerves (pain, weakness, inflammation, numbness, shaking, etc), brain (inattention, mental dullness), sexual function (impotence, frigidity, infertility, miscarriage), etc.

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Milk, yogurt and soft cheeses are low protein, low fat and more moistening, cooling (water, minerals, sugar) than building. They are more appropriate for the dry, overbuilt, Dairy products including hard cheese are sattwic in nature and those living in hot, dry climates. In excess, soft dairy, including ice cream tends to weaken and dilute digestion, enzymes and acids, in addition to creating excess mucous, phlegm in the lungs, nose, throat, sinuses, intestines, sexual organs (white vaginal discharge), and sour breath, body odor. Milk is best drunk alone. Yogurt digests well with fruit. Cardamom helps digest dairy. Ice cream, frozen yogurt etc. is a dietary nightmare as these foods are cold, sweet (sugary) and fatty, and deleterious, freezing to digestion, metabolism, etc.

Milk, yogurt and soft cheeses cool and moisten

Soft dairy: too much Digestion Bloating, gas Respiration Mucous, phlegm (clear, white)

Coughing, snoring, sinusitis Body odor Sour, sweet, damp and or musty Reproduction Vaginal discharge, yeast infection Ayurveda Kapha (water)

Protein and fat build fuel, heat and form attachments to the body, life. The choice of protein and fat (animal, plant) depends on the individual: health, disease, age, occupation, location, etc. The lacto vegetarian and vegan diets are cleansing and sattwic (spiritual) in nature. Eating a vegetarian diet does not make you spiritual. Meditation (focus on God), generosity, even-mindedness, celibacy, etc. makes you spiritual. Many young people if not physically, mentally or spiritually prepared, healthy get sick on the vegetarian diet, which is more appropriate in one’s later tears.

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Grains (whole, cracked, noodles and bread)

Grains (rice, barley, buckwheat, millet, wheat, oats, bread, noodles, etc.) are primarily water, minerals, sugar and fiber, containing very little protein and fat. They help quench the sweet taste while also cleaning up the waste products of protein, fat, oil and flour (fried foods, bread, noodles, cookies, etc.) when eaten in whole or cracked form (not flour). . Cracked grains (white rice) are easy to digest and leave very little residue, paste. Many cultures crack and mill their grains, removed the outer husk, making them more digestible. Salt (in cooking water) increases digestion of grain. Leafy green vegetables (kale, collards, broccoli, cabbage, carrot tops, watercress, etc.) are high in fiber and help eliminate excess paste, build up in the intestines Potatoes and yams tend to be pasty. Processed grains (bread, noodles, cookies, pastries, etc.) are more difficult to digest. The flour and oil of bread, cookies, pretzels, chips, pretzels, etc. tend to form a sticky paste (when not digested, eliminated) that sticks and hardens forming an extra layer on the walls, villi of the small intestine reducing nutrient absorption, blood, while increasing hunger, appetite, abdominal bloating and gas. Nutrients absorb through the villi (fingerlike projections) in the small intestine, directly into the bloodstream. Nutrient absorption decreases when the villi become blocked, pasted by protein, fat, oil and flour. Too many flour products also tend to paste and harden the large intestine, stools (pasty). Vegetables and fruits are mostly water, enzymes, vitamins, minerals and fiber that require little of no digestion. They tend to cool, stop digestion, secretion of acid and enzymes, which is why they are eaten at the end of the meal. Their high fiber content helps clean and eliminate waste product.

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Grains, vegetables and fruits are high in fiber, and act like a broom in sweeping the stomach, small and large intestines clean of any excess debris: undigested food, waste product. All waste products are toxic, and require daily elimination to prevent possible re-absorption back into the bloodstream. It is for this and other reasons that the recommended diet is two-thirds cleansing, fruit, vegetables and grains to keep the body clean, cool and moist. Raw vegetables (salads) and fruits (especially tropical and citrus) are more cooling and can aggravate cold, damp conditions including weak digestion (abdominal bloating, gas) and elimination (loose stools, diarrhea). Cooked vegetables are more warming, stimulating. Fruits, vegetables and grains are sweet, sugary. Regular consumption in addition to protein and fat helps reduce sugar cravings, especially for concentrated sweets (cookies, pastries, alcohol, etc.) and sweeteners (honey, sugar, fructose, etc.). Concentrated sweets and sweeteners instantly increase blood sugar level. Too much sugar tends to over stimulate, overwork and weaken the pancreas, which in turn, weakens, distorts blood sugar causing hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, diabetes, hyperactivity, hypo activity, and or depression. Protein and fat fuel energy. Low protein, low fat and low carbohydrate diets in general tend to increase sugar cravings, as sugar is a quick form of energy, unlike protein and fat, which takes time to digest, absorb. The burst, strength and duration of “sugar based” energy unfortunately are small, quick and short-lived. It is like throwing twigs on a fire. They burn fast and quickly. Protein and fat, big, thick logs burn long and strong. Your get more fire, heat and energy, via the burning of protein and fat, than sugar, carbohydrates. Low protein, low fat and high carbohydrate diets increase sugar cravings, overeating and appetite.

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Water, sugar, minerals cleanse, cool and moisten

Too many salads, tropical fruits, juices, sodas Digestion Bloating, gas Elimination Loose stools, diarrhea Respiration Mucous, phlegm, coughing, shortness of breath Reproduction Frigidity, impotence, infertility, miscarriage

Too many cleansing, cold, damp foods, drinks (milk, yogurt, ice cream, tropical fruits, juices, shakes, cold drinks, ice water, etc.) tend to cool, dilute and weaken digestion, slowing movement of food (abdominal bloating, gas, burping), reducing nutrient absorption, blood, while moistening the stools (loose, watery). Digestive energy, fire (three meals per day) heats and dries the body, especially the lungs, throat, etc. which lie above the digestive organs (heat rises). Weak digestion tends to cool and moisten the body, lungs, throat, sinuses and nose with excess fluids: water, mucous and or phlegm. Cold condenses. In nature, the cold temperatures of night and winter condense harden water in the air into the morning dew, rain, snow and or ice. In the body, excess cold, via cold, damp environment, chronic illness or cold, damp diet, cools and hardens water in the lungs, nose, sinuses and throat into mucous and phlegm, which can collect, harden (nodules) and obstruct the lungs, bronchi, alveoli (where gas exchange takes place), breath (coughing, snoring, etc.) reducing oxygen absorption. Drinking with meals should be kept to a minimum (soup, water and or tea). Cold drinks, sodas, ice tea, ice water, fruit juices, etc. dilute and weaken digestive enzymes slowing the movement of food (abdominal bloating, gas, etc.), decreasing nutrient absorption while increasing waste.

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Cooking with spices (cardamom, cumin, coriander, fennel, ginger, cayenne, cinnamon, turmeric, etc.) increase digestion, warmth and energy, fights the common cold, while also killing worms, parasites and bacteria. The aroma, smell of most spices (cardamom, cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, cayenne, peppermint, etc.) is antagonistic, noxious to most bacteria, viruses, etc. Spices and cooked foods are the cheapest, most effective and least hazardous flu shot one can take, as long as one is committed to natural diet, daily exercise, etc. Spices can be used in cooking (soups, stews, desserts, etc.). Eating from hot (soup, protein and fat) to cold (vegetables and fruit at the end of the meal) increases digestion, absorption and elimination. If you eat cold, cleansing foods at the beginning, you dilute, weaken and slow digestion. If you eat them at the end, you clean up after digestion. The more you digest, burn, the more you eliminate (bowels, urine, sweat, etc), the less you weigh. These are the major food groups, nutrients and their energetic, building (hot) and cleansing (cold) tendencies. Quality is always important, which is why organically grown produce is preferred as most commercial produce, foods, meats, etc. tend to be high in chemicals, preservatives, antibiotics, etc. The amount of food eaten at each meal is limited to the size of the stomach. The stomach does expand to meet an ever-demanding need. Ideally, the stomach should be approximately ½ solid, ¼ liquid and ¼ empty. One plate of food per meal is advised. The amount, number of meals depends on the individual. As one gets older less eating, smaller meals are advisable. Two meals per day should be more than sufficient in maintaining one’s energy, health. Periodic fasting on fruit juice, one day per week is generally very beneficial to one’s health as it allows non-food sources of energy to heal and energize the body. “Man does not live by bread alone.” You cannot revive a dead body with food, water and oxygen.

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The correct balance of building and cleansing is determined by the body’s natural nutritional composition, ratio of building to cleansing nutrients, which is approximately 1/3 building (protein, fat) and 2/3 cleansing (water, minerals). The middle diet, meal plan (constructed accordingly) and its two variations balance the two disease extremes (overbuilt, too hot and under built, too cold. Every Asian and many American restaurants serve this diet, in one form or another. Read the menu, ask questions and or make requests. You can also bag it; bring your own lunch (sandwich, raw carrots, tea, etc.) to work.

Middle diet, meal plan

+ 1/3 Protein and fat: chicken, turkey, eggs, cheese, beans, nuts +/- 1/3 Grains (whole, cracked, noodles, bread) + 1/3 Vegetables, cooked (3-5) and fruit (1) +/- Spices, soup and or tea

Colder middle diet, meal plan twice daily

1/4 Protein and fat

1/4 Grain

1/2 Vegetables & fruit

Increase hard cheese, beans, nuts and seeds Supplement with small amounts: eggs, chicken and or turkey

+/- whole, cracked grains millet, white rice, oatmeal, noodles

Increase raw (cabbage, celery), cooked broccoli, carrots with tops, cauliflower, hard squash, parsnips, etc.

Decrease, eliminate red meat, pork, pizza, lasagna, fried foods, chips, alcohol

Decrease cookies, chips, pastries, junk

Increase fruit

Spices, herbs (bitter) and or tea (peppermint, chrysanthemum) Condiments: soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, mustard, etc

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Hotter middle diet, meal plan twice daily

1/3 Protein and fat

1/3 Grain

1/3 Vegetables & fruit

Increase hard cheese, eggs, chicken, turkey or red meat Fish is questionable: mercury unsanitary farming.

Increase cracked grains (white rice, oatmeal, etc.), noodles

Increase cooked vegetables: roots, round and leafy. Decrease salads, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant

Decrease milk, yogurt and soft cheeses

Decrease bread cookies, pastries, pretzels, chips

Increase fruit Decrease tropical fruits, juices, cold drinks, soda

Spices (use several), herbs (Siberian ginseng) and or tea (green) Condiments: soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar

Both diets, variations are temporary once health, balance restore at which time the middle diet resumes. The primary food groups, spices, herbs and meals can be adjusted, increased or decreased accordingly. For overbuilt, high protein, high fat conditions eat a small breakfast (no protein, fat), big lunch (colder middle diet) and small dinner. Snack on vegetables and fruit. For under built, low protein, low fat conditions eat big breakfast (hotter middle diet), big lunch and small dinner. Soups, cooked vegetables and small amounts of protein, fat (animal) are easier to digest, which is important, as under built, deficient conditions tend to have weak digestion. Vegetable omelets; rice, beans, vegetables and fruit or chicken, turkey or beans with rice vegetables, spices, fruit and tea, etc. for breakfast and or lunch may seem strange and or boring, but what are not strange and boring are the continual health, happiness, longevity and great taste. The healthier you eat, the healthier and smarter your body mind becomes as old, unhealthy foods that were once appealing, tasty are no longer appealing, tasty, but instead revolting, painful, etc.

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The middle diet and its two variations while balanced are extreme in relation to the current way most people eat and may cause rapid healing, discharge, which is why the diet may need widening (include old, forbidden, reduced foods, including junk food) to slow the healing process down. Fast healing may overload and weaken the kidneys, liver, intestines, etc. Healing is like a long distance race. You need to pace yourself. You have plenty of time. Moderation and patience are the keys to overcoming disease. The solution to all dietary diseases is the same. Eat in the opposite direction (hotter or colder middle diet) until health, balance restore, at which time, the middle diet, meal plan resumes. For overbuilt diseases, decrease building foods, herbs, etc., while increasing cleansing. For under built diseases, increase building, hot, while decreasing but not eliminating cleansing, cold foods, especially fruit. Most disease is caused by poor diet (too building or too cleansing). Nutritional supplements, herbal formulas, special foods, etc. by themselves do not cure disease. Their power, efficacy depends on the overall diet. If you are chronically sick (long lasting disease), then you must first change your diet before changing anything else. Diet, nutritional supplements, herbal formulas, chiropractors, acupuncturists, etc. are sometimes not powerful enough, which is why doctors, drugs, surgery, etc. may be necessary. It never hurts to get x rays, blood work, a second or third opinion, etc. nor does it hurt to educate oneself. Chapter Three (Digestion, Spices and Chinese Herbs) presents additional information on the way of eating. The choice of foods will always depend on the individual, age, condition, climate, etc.

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The following are a list of authors and their books, all tops in their fields: diet, nutrition, herbs, exercise, acupuncture, cooking, etc. I use these books many times, as they give great and varied information according to their area of expertise. It was in Energetics of Western Herbs, Volumes, 1 and 2 by Peter Holmes that I discovered that peppermint oil was a cure for toothache, infected nerves, roots. Please read case history (pages 265- 266). The best way to become your own expert is to study other experts in your field. Please read the bibliography for more experts. It never hurts to check one set of experts (doctors, insurance agents, parents, etc.) with your own set of experts, including yourself.

Recommended reading

1. Chinese Health Care Secrets by Henry B. Lin 2. Healing with Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford 3. Asian Health Secrets by Letha Hadady, D. Ac. 4. The Tao of Nutrition by Maoshing Ni, Ph.D. C.A. 5. The Tao of Healthy Eating by Bob Flaws, prolific author,

Blue Poppy Press publishing co, really cool TCM books. 6. Chinese Herbs with Common Foods by Henry C. Lu, Ph.D. 7. Yoga of Herbs by Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasant Lad 8. Energetics of Western Herbs, II & I by Peter Holmes 9. Prescription for Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A, Balch,

CNC and James F. Balch, M.D.

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