Yin (which tends to be more feminine) and yang (which tends to be more masculine) represent the dynamic balance of opposing forces. And getting nutrients from food without upsetting this balance is very important. They would benefit from eating foods that are cooked (but not fried). Consuming more fruits, vegetables, and bitter greens will add more yin and help them to balance the heat. Anything spicy, fried, or pungent increases heat and can cause health problems by burning away the yin. Alcohol is considered pungent and should be avoided. Warming foods like squashes and stews are great for this type. They should eat cold foods like raw vegetables in moderation. Foods that help with water retention like leeks, celery, and cabbage are great for this type. They should avoid ingredients that will create more inflammation and phlegm, such as fried foods, sugar, dairy, and starches. They should avoid hot, spicy foods since they are more drying. Foods that are high in moisture like dairy, soy, pears, and fatty fish are best for this type. She received her Masters of Oriental Medicine at Tri-State College of Acupuncture, and currently serves as a senior clinical faculty member there. Tsao is a NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) Diplomat in Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. She has completed post graduate studies in classical Japanese herbal medicine known as Kampo and doctoral level training and certification in Sports Medicine Acupuncture®. An experienced and highly trained licensed acupuncturist and healer, she serves patients in the New York City area and continues to study the ancient healing arts and the art of classical Chinese medicine. Much of her work focuses on teachings of master practitioner Kiiko Matsumoto.
