With rising temperatures and longer days, summer often inspires lighter, cooler meals, especially when it comes to breakfast. Smoothies, parfaits, and cold brewed Dandy Blend become popular choices, promising refreshment and energy. But what does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have to say about cold breakfasts in the summer? If you’re seeking healthy breakfast ideas that reflect the wisdom of TCM and keep your mornings vibrant, understanding the balance between seasonal eating and digestive health can help. Today, we’re sharing how Dandy Blend and thoughtful choices can help you start your day strong and in harmony with your body.
*Image by @EyeEm
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic healthcare system developed over thousands of years in China, rooted in the belief that health is achieved through harmony and balance within the body and between the body and its environment. TCM draws on concepts like Qi (vital energy), the interplay of Yin and Yang (opposing forces), and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water). These principles guide a more natural approach to treatment options, which may include herbal medicine, acupuncture, food therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.[1]
A central idea in Traditional Chinese Medicine is that food acts as both nourishment and medicine. Meals are selected not just for flavor but also for their energetic properties (warming or cooling), seasonal appropriateness, and effects on organ systems. This approach helps generate healthy breakfast ideas that align with one’s constitution and the climate. [2]
What Traditional Chinese Medicine Says About Cold Breakfasts in the Summer
According to TCM, turning to cooling foods in summer makes sense, as heat and humidity can put extra stress on the body’s internal balance. [3] However, TCM traditionally advocates for warm, easily digested breakfasts, even during the hottest months. Here’s why:
- Adapting to Summer’s Heat… Mindfully
While the environment is warm, some cooling foods—think melons, cucumbers, and mint—are beneficial if balanced with other ingredients. TCM doesn’t recommend ice-cold meals, even in summer, but rather room temperature or lightly warm dishes that are easier on digestion. [4] For example, letting overnight oats come to room temperature, or gently warming them before eating, is a TCM-friendly, healthy breakfast idea. - Nourishing and Hydrating, Not Shocking
The key is to not shock the body first thing in the morning with something too cold. Instead, start your day with gentle nourishment that supports hydration, energy, and digestion. Dandy Blend served warm, or at room temperature, is an excellent substitute for iced coffee, fitting beautifully into a TCM-inspired routine.
Healthy Breakfast & Beverage Ideas for Summer According to TCM
- Room Temp Overnight Oats: Prep oats with warming spices (like cinnamon or ginger), let them chill overnight, but eat them after reaching room temperature.
- Steamed Summer Vegetables: Light, easy to digest, and perfect when paired with a mug of Dandy Blend.
- Savory Bowls: a hearty bowl of quinoa or an egg scramble would be the perfect start to your day, according to TCM.
- Warm Dandy Blend: Enjoy Dandy Blend warm or at room temperature with a dash of cardamom or cinnamon for a gentle start to your day.
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*Disclaimer
Dandy Blend is not a supplement or medicine. Any health related questions or concerns, we always recommend consulting with your primary care physician.
*Banner image by @4045
