COOLING INSIGHTS: about the impact of cold liquids on your health.
- Veerle Geets
- Nov 22, 2023
- 4 min read
Do you kickstart your day with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed fruit juice, complete with at least two ice cubes? Perhaps your afternoon cravings lean towards a crisp, raw salad paired with the effervescent allure of a cold 'Coca Cola Light.' As the day unfolds, indulge in the delectable combination of sushi and a glass of chilled white wine for dinner. And to cap it all off, who can resist the temptation of a frozen sorbet, shining like a star on your culinary journey? Sounds like a feast for the senses, and quite healthy, doesn't it?
However, let's explore a fascinating perspective rooted in the centuries-old tradition of acupuncture. The excessive enjoyment of refreshing delights, often accompanied by cold beverages, might not be the healthiest choice according to this ancient wisdom. Intriguing, isn't it? Join me on a voyage through the intricacies of Chinese Medicine, where the warmth might hold the key to optimal health.
Enter the realm of acupuncture, and you encounter the concept of the ‘Triple Heater’.
In acupuncture, we know the term ‘ Triple Heater’. True to its name, it comprises three integral parts:
* The "Upper Burner”, housing the Heart and Lungs
* The "Middle Burner”, with the Spleen, Stomach, Gallbladder, and Liver
* The "Lower Burner”, featuring the Kidneys, Large and Small Intestines and the reproductive organs.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating realm of Chinese Medicine. The Stomach,, the caldron of the “Middle Burner”, works in harmony with the Spleen, or more precisely, Spleen Yang, which acts as the fire beneath the caldron. The Spleen's role is to distill the purest essence of food and send it to the Lungs and Heart, where it transforms into Qi (energy) and nourishing Blood.
However, the tale takes a twist when cold drinks enter the scene. According to Chinese Medicine, these icy delights can deplete our digestive heat. Imagine your Stomach as a cozy kettle and your Spleen as the fire beneath it. When you fill the kettle with cold drinks, the Spleen has to work extra hard to maintain its warmth. Over time, this can exhaust Spleen Yang, prompting the 'Middle Warmer' to borrow heat from the 'Lowest Warmer' (Kidney Yang). Persistent consumption of cold drinks may even lead to the depletion of 'Kidney Yang,' resulting in discomfort like 'Cold in the Lower Burner’.
The repercussions of this culinary choice are quite diverse:
1. Gastro-intestinal Issues:
Cold drinks may contribute to nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or bloating.
2. Weakened Immunity:
Kidney Yang and Spleen Yang, crucial for immunity, can be compromised by frequent intake of cold drinks.
3. Formation of 'Damp':
Depletion of Kidney Yang and Spleen Yang can hinder the transport of fluids, leading to fatigue, dizziness, sleep problems, and more.
4. Menstrual Disorders:
Cold drinks may interfere with Qi circulation (Qi= energy) and Blood flow, contributing to menstrual pain and irregularities.
5. Depletion of Kidney Yang:
Frequent consumption of cold drinks may result in increased urination, muscle and joint pains, reduced libido, and emotional challenges.
Chinese Medicine suggests that the depletion of Kidney Yang could lead to restlessness and mental agitation, creating a cycle of disharmony.
What is good to support your health?
Do you kickstart your morning with a delightful glass of warm water to embrace the day, showing some love to your body's Kidney-Yang and Milt-Yang? Your digestive system will certainly thank you! Picture enjoying the warmth spreading through your system, making digestion more efficient and keeping your body well-hydrated.
In the chilly months, consider opting for comforting hot drinks, like a nourishing bowl of warm soup for breakfast. It may seem unconventional at first, but the burst of energy you feel afterward is guaranteed to be worth it!
When you're out and about, don't hesitate to ask for your drinks without ice cubes. Small adjustments, big impact!
As you can see, these small daily choices significantly impact our health. So, the next time you reach for that cold drink, consider the long-term well-being of your health!
Hi, I'm Veerle, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to 'The Wisdom of Inner Healing’.
As an acupuncturist and energetic healer, my commitment to providing high-quality treatments goes beyond just the needle. I passionately explore the profound wisdom of Chinese Medicine, embracing a holistic approach to address not only symptoms but also their deeper roots.
What sets my practice apart is the belief in a holistic journey towards healing. I aim to offer a space of peace, trust, and understanding to everyone who enters my practice. Here, in a serene and welcoming environment, clients can feel secure, knowing they are heard and understood.
I invite you to join me on the path to health and well-being. Together, let's work towards a more balanced, healthier, and fulfilling life.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to drop me an email at:
Wishing you the best on your wellness journey!
Warm regards,
Veerle