Rest & Digest
Bowl of food, https://unsplash.com/@thephotographermom
In Chinese medicine the most important organ system is considered to be the Spleen & Stomach. It is considered the powerhouse of energy production and where we get our post natal Qi. When this system malfunctions health problems can occur, prolonged digestive issues could lead to sluggishness and sometimes more serious health conditions. (For more serious conditions please check in with a health care professional.)
Some simple things to consider when it is time to refuel:
1. Provide yourself with a calm and comfortable environment for eating. A calm environment assists the body enlist the parasympathetic (rest & digest) function so that digestion can occur efficiently. Eat slowly, chew well and take the time to enjoy your food.
2. Ensure that you are eating at regular mealtimes according to your schedule. I usually ask about regular meal times as this give an indication about how a person cares for themself. A regular meal time indicates that our appetite is functioning well, and that we are conscious about when we refuel. Meal planning doesn’t require a fancy menu. Often times we want things to be perfect when setting out to do better for ourselves. But for the most part, a mental checklist of having a good quality protein, vegetable and grain in your diet for the day would work in a pinch.
3. Lastly, finish eating about 3-4 hours before your bed time. This will allow for your stomach to have adequate time to process any new foods you have introduced into your system. It is important to give this system a rest as it is part of maintenance and care for your digestive system. If you do find yourself hungry at night and require a snack, select small portions of foods that are easily digestible and preferably warm.
Proper care of the digestive system does not need to be complicated especially if you don’t have any serious digestive problems. Simply eating plenty of vegetables, a good quality protein and grain is generally what I look for. Be conscious of portion sizes and listen to the body-sometimes its just dehydrated or needs a little bit more fibre.
