Today is Chinese New Year and while our Chinese friends celebrate this occasion, we want to embrace the impact they have had in the health world. As one of the most health conscious groups out there, they've taught us the meaning of using natural remedies to cure the common cold to one of our favorite topics, weight loss.
The Chinese often take a holistic approach to handling weight issues, that there are so many to choose from that we love!
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I would almost say that weight loss and Eastern medicine are synonymous. Throughout the years we've learned that perhaps using diet pills isn't the healthiest way to lose weight and have turned to a more natural approach.
That's where Chinese medicine comes in as they are pros at maintaining healthy weights and eating well–without any pills. Below are some great traditional Chinese strategies intended for weight loss and the well-being of your overall health.
They drink a lot of tea. The Chinese are well known for drinking plenty of tea. With the many teas they have to offer, one of the most potent is green tea which has been shown to fight heart disease, boost metabolism, and fight fat.
They don't diet. Instead of cutting down on calories, the Chinese choose to eat whole fresh foods such as vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. They avoid processed foods, cut down on meat, and focus on making vegetables the main course. Quality over quantity is of utmost importance.
Use natural spices in your meals. Often times we reach for processed seasonings to flavor our foods. The Chinese rely on simple natural spices such as garlic, ginger, and other herbs to add flavor to their meals.
Eat slowly and mindfully. As Americans we tend to overeat and eat our meals quickly without a second thought. Not only is this bad for digestion, but it can lead to weight gain. The Chinese use smaller plates and focus on their meals making sure to savor it all without any interruptions from TV or cell phones.
They handle stress well. While most Americans are stress cases that turn to food for comfort, the Chinese prefer methods such as acupuncture, tai chi, or yoga to unwind. Try to find one active or soothing activity to do after work or during your lunch time to avoid falling victim to stress.
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