Autumn is an important time for cleansing internally to nourish the skin. As the air cools and the drying effects of these months takes its toll on your hair, nails and skin tone, your diet should become fuller, richer and more warming to counteract these climate changes.
In Chinese Medicine, autumn is related to the Metal element, and associated with the Lungs and the Large Intestine. The lung governs the skin and body hair, and sends Qi downward to activate the detoxifying effect of the large intestine. If the lungs become weakened then the digestion gets impaired, which can wreak havoc on your skin. So, as we think about autumn and witness the changing of the leaves, we should also think about how our body’s beauty needs change.
Internal Beauty
The dietary needs that come with the seasonal changes should be logical, but the climate has varied so much that it can be confusing at times. The way to think about fall foods is easy. Eat seasonal, local, organic food and focus on the heartier variety of fruits, vegetables, grains and meats. Just as the leaves turn brilliant orange, red, and yellow, so too should your diet. These colors are best represented in the roots, tubers and squashes, which tend to be loaded with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A and a very popular anti-aging ingredient in natural skincare today. By eating these foods, you moisten and nourish internally and ultimately enhance your complexion.
Autumn fruits and vegetables help sustain us by reinforcing our stomach Qi, and activating its warming nature and upward action. In turn, supplementing the downward direction of the lung energy.
We always tell our patients that this is the time to break out the crock-pot and slow cook foods on low temperatures for longer hours. Not only does this cooking method keep the nutrients in tact, it also creates a richer dish that gives your lungs and large intestine a boost, ultimately nourishing the skin.
Our Favorite Fall Beauty Foods
Kale: high in fiber, calcium, and beta-carotene, which has anti-oxidant qualities and is a precursor to vitamin A, a very important beauty nutrient and very beneficial to the health of the lungs and large intestine.
Mustard Greens: Studies have shown that mustard greens, like other greens, have anti-cancer effects. They contain high amounts of C, E and beta-carotene, all useful for benefiting the luster of the skin. According to TCM, mustard greens are warming and enter the lung channel, thus making it the perfect food to add to your fall recipes.
Beetroot: Has a downward action and clears congestion and is a great vegetable for promoting better circulation. Beetroot is very effective for cleansing the colon and therefore benefits the skin.
Brussel Sprouts: Loaded with vitamin A, beta-carotene, Vitamin C and Folic acid, this vegetable packs a strong anti-aging punch. The cabbage family is important for intestinal cleansing and according to TCM, important for blood purifying, two areas that we think are important for healthy looking skin.
Acorn Squash/Pumpkin/Butternut Squash: Again, another group of foods high in the beta-carotenes. Generally, the richer the color the higher the amount. Also a good source of C and fiber. These veggies are great for reducing sweet cravings and can be stomach tonics when eaten moderately: good skin starts with strong digestion!
Broccoli: Like brussel sprouts, this veggie is loaded with vitamin C, beta-carotene and has anti-oxidant power. This green food is a must have all fall and winter!
Onions: Warming and pungent, onions are great for warming up the lungs and stomach.
Apples: Has a moistening effect on the lungs and generates fluids; a great addition to the diet for those of you with a lot of dryness.
Pears: This fruit is notorious for it’s ability to generate fluids and moisten the lung. It is a great addition to the diet after a high fever and respiratory conditions that heat up the lungs. Poaching pears is a fall favorite in my family and helps combat the drying effects of heated homes and apartments.
Red Cabbage: Like the brussel sprouts, this super food are loaded with vitamin C and fiber, but more importantly, it has a high level of antioxidants, making it an anti-cancer food. And to us, that is beautiful!
Our Anti-Aging Beauty Soup
A vitamin packed, nutrient rich soup that is good for your complexion and your health.
Ingredients:
2 lbs broccoli
1 lb mixed dark green leafies
1 medium onion
5 clove garlic
2 large carrots
2 celery stems
1 quart chicken or vegetable broth
Grated gruyere cheese (Optional)
¼ lb shitake mushrooms
2 tblspn canola oil
1 lemon cut into slices
Dice onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent (about 5 minutes). Chop mushrooms and add to onions, 1-2 minutes. Chop celery and peel carrots and add to onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes, add in broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes. Pour broth over vegetables, add greens. Salt and pepper to taste. Let mixture come to a boil, turn down to a bubbling simmer for 25 minutes. Puree in blender and serve with lemon and grated gruyere cheese. Delicious, healthy and a great skin tonic from the inside out.
Laura Kauffmann and Beth Hooper are licensed acupuncturists and Chinese medicine specialists with private practices in New York City. We have a passion for educating the general public about natural and organic skincare, so please send this link along to anyone who you think may be interested. You can visit our home page at http://www.sheessentialbeauty.com
