The Tao Of Food: Using Taoist Principles To Guide Your Diet And Nutrition

 “FOOD IS THE PARAMOUNT NECESSITY OF THE PEOPLE.” 

—Old Chinese Proverb 

Across the globe, individuals' diet patterns reflect a diverse tapestry of cultures, traditions, and preferences. Food is sustenance and a reflection of identity, and people's perceptions of food and beverages vary widely. Cultural norms, availability, and personal beliefs shape these preferences.

Some regions prioritise whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, fostering positive health outcomes. Mediterranean and traditional Asian diets, for instance, are rich in vegetables, fish, and olive oil. These diets are associated with lower rates of heart disease and obesity. In contrast, modern Western diets often include processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats, contributing to health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Beverage choices also reveal insights into dietary patterns. While water is a universal necessity, some cultures embrace herbal teas and natural beverages, while others opt for sugary sodas and energy drinks. These choices impact weight management and overall well-being.

Global dietary patterns have shown both positive and negative effects on health. A diet high in plant-based foods can reduce chronic disease risk, while excessive consumption of sugary and fatty foods can lead to obesity and related complications. Moreover, cultural attitudes toward food can affect mental health. Eating practices emphasising mindfulness and communal meals can promote positive emotional connections with food.

Altogether, individuals' dietary choices worldwide reflect cultural diversity and personal beliefs. Positive health effects stem from diets rich in whole foods, while adverse outcomes arise from consuming processed and unhealthy options. Cultural perceptions of food and beverages not only influence physical health but also impact mental and emotional well-being. Recognising the global spectrum of dietary preferences can inform efforts to promote healthier eating habits and improve overall quality of life.

Do you want to be healthy and reach certain wellness goals? If yes, here is the Tao of Balanced Diet and its theories & principles of food consumption. There are also a few possibilities that these principles may help you achieve all of your objectives to attain a healthy & fit body. Apart from this, you can go through the book, namely-” The Tao of Balanced Diet: Secrets of a Thin and Healthy Body,” and follow & apply all the principles in it in your routine.

If you want to live a graceful, long life, let’s proceed to this blog, which will enable you to maintain your longevity and your health.

According to statistics-

• As per the statement of Chinese respondents given in March 2023, approximately 33.9% of respondents spent 300-500 yuan on health & functional food products every month.
• In 2023, it’s an estimated ⅔ of respondents were Chinese consumers who bought health supplements for microelements. In the meantime, nearly 43% of respondents purchased functional foods for anti-fatigue.
• In China, income in the Food market amounted to USD 1,492.0 billion in 2023. And it’s projected to increase yearly at a compound annual growth rate of  7.88% from 2023-2028.
• The largest segment of the market in the segment meat in 2023 had a market volume of USD 260.4 billion.
• As compared to the global revenue, the most significant part of income is generated in China( USD1,492 billion in 2023.
• In relation to the total population figures of China, per-person incomes of USD 1,022.00 are generated in the year 2023.
• In the food market of China, 34.6% of aggregate income will be generated through online sales by 2023. And it’s expected that this volume will amount to 453.1 billion kg by 2028.
• It’s anticipated that the food market will represent a volume growth of 7.3% in 2024.
• The average volume per person in the Food market is projected to amount to 233.20 kg in 2023.
• As per the survey conducted by Rakuten Insight in April 2023, nearly 76% of respondents in China between 16-24 years old said that they mostly preferred to order local cuisine meals on food delivery apps, a little bit more than respondents in other age groups. They were also more likely to place an order for bubble tea as well as desserts via food delivery apps as compared to the older generation.
• The convenience food market in China surpassed 531 billion yuan in 2022, which represented a steady increase in recent years. And it’s expected that this market will expand in 2023 and surpass 558 billion yuan.

Here is a list of Taoist principles related to diet and nutrition that may help you out on your path to wellness as well as your wellness journey. So let’s have a glance at them-

Whole Grains

“The Taoism diet comprises 50-70% whole grains, 20-30% vegetables, and 5-10% animal or bean products.”

—Grand Master Mantak Chia  -Founder of Universal Healing Tao

According to Tao, products that have little nutritional value are excluded from the diet, namely white flour products and sugar. Sugar is essential to harmonise with the other four tastes but should be obtained from the sweet flavour of grains-  Shashi, a Universal Healing Tao Instructor. 

It will be beneficial for individuals in improving their digestion. Little children or elder ones who can’t digest brown rice easily- Qigong Master Qinyin.

Organic & Seasonal Fruits And Vegetables 

Organic & seasonal fruits and vegetables that are grown locally are crucial in a Taoism diet. It includes plums, cabbage, and root vegetables, such as beets, turnips & rutabaga, which add sweetness to the diet. 

Exclude Hard To Digest Food From Diet

Cheese, dairy products, & red meat contain saturated fat, and citrus fruits are considered hard-to-digest food items that must be avoided. Steamed white meat, sweet desserts, cheese, spices, and fish can be eaten occasionally, but meals that are purely vegetarian, such as green leaf vegetable broth & seaweed soups, are highly recommended.

Upon consideration

Ultimately, the principles related to the Taoist diet are based on eating locally-grown organic &  seasonal produce such as whole grains, fruits, nuts, cooked food, seeds, and vegetables. These principles emphasise on exclusion of acidic foods, red meat, artificial food additives, refined foods, heavily processed foods, dairy products, tropical fruits, hard-to-digest food items, tropical fruits, robust spices, sugar, and cold foods. By following all of the above-mentioned principles, all individuals can attain an attractive physique.

Also Read: Taoism and the Martial Arts: Exploring the Connection Between Taoist Philosophy and Combat Training