Diet for the Phlegm constitution in Tibetan medicine

In Tibetan medicine, the Phlegm constitution is connected with metabolism, body fluids, immunity, hormonal regulation and tissue stability. When Phlegm is balanced, a person feels calm, strong, enduring and stable. When this principle becomes excessive, heaviness, sleepiness, sluggishness, weight gain and stagnation may appear.

People of the Phlegm type should avoid eating too often. It is useful to keep enough time between meals so that previous food can be digested properly. Frequent snacking, sweets with tea and eating out of boredom are especially unfavourable for this constitution.

Hot, freshly prepared, light and easily digestible food is best. Baked, stewed, roasted or grilled dishes prepared without excess oil are suitable. Food should warm and activate the body, not make it heavier.

Cold, fatty, heavy, stale or refrigerated foods are unfavourable. Half-cooked or burnt dishes, difficult-to-digest meals, cold drinks, sandwich-style eating and snacks on the run are also not recommended.

People of the Phlegm constitution should be careful with large amounts of raw fruits and vegetables, especially those with cooling properties. Cucumbers, eggplants, cabbage, corn, peas, potatoes, beets and peppers may increase heaviness in some people.

Lifestyle is just as important as diet. Daytime sleep after meals, long sitting and lack of activity are especially unfavourable for Phlegm. Movement, physical work, active intellectual activity and a dynamic daily rhythm help disperse stagnation.

It is also important not to become overcooled. People of this type should dress warmly, avoid cold water and protect the body from excess cold. The key words for the Phlegm diet are warmth, lightness, movement and moderation.