Baby boomers are concerned about the effects of food on the body and mind. While they avoid trans fats, high fructose corn syrup, dietary cholesterol, highly caloric foods, and foods made with refined products they are also indulging in wine and chocolate. Because they want to feel younger for longer, like many others, food companies and food researchers are striving to reach their dietary needs.

Increasing amounts of nutritional supplements and antioxidants, including calcium, vitamin D and zinc, can slow the rate of age-related disease and increase the number of healthy years, according to Jeffrey Blumberg, a nutrition scientist at Tufts University. “Delaying the onset of disease for five to 15 years can have an impact on public health and on one’s own health,” he said. His research indicates that increasing the recommended daily allowances for vitamin D could help in combating arthritis, multiple sclerosis, gastrointestinal disorders, and immune response. “We have to be willing to create new food products that older people can consume on a regular basis,” says Blumberg.

Chinese food therapy is effective in minimizing the aches and pains of aging while recognizing the need for flexibility in dietary choices. Each food within the Chinese dietary medicine framework is characterized by its energies, therapeutic actions and flavors. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy utilizes the belief that hot (yang) and cold (yin) food properties affect different energies in the body. Both types of food should be included in the diet to keep the body in balance.

Yang foods increase the body’s heat and raise metabolism while yin foods lower body heat and metabolism. Intake of food should also be balanced according to the season. Summer (yang) should have more yin foods in the diet and winter (yin) should include more yang foods. Yang foods (chicken, garlic, ginger, plums, onion, most meats), can invigorate the blood and eliminate cold. Yin foods (tofu, raw vegetables, melon-type fruits), reduce inflammation and eliminate toxins.

Acupuncture & Massage College’s Masters of Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs prepare graduates for careers as acupuncture physicians and massage therapists. For program information contact Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.