Oriental Food Psychology: Digging into the Mind

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Oriental Food Psychology Digging into the Mind
the FoodWhen diet is wrong medicine is of no
use. When diet is correct medicine is of no
need. Chinese Proverb

• Shraddha Ishwad
• Michael Johnson

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• Basics of the American Food Pyramid
• Physical Activity is encouraged for a healthy
  lifestyle.
• The use of red meat and alcohol consumption is
  reduced.
• The food pyramid is based on daily servings.
• An emphasis is put on fruits, vegetables, plant
  oils and whole grains.

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• Whats so different about Oriental Diets??
• The Asian food pyramid is not based upon daily
  consumption.
• Daily consumption of water or tea is encouraged.
• The basis of the Asian Food pyramid emphasizes
  the importance of Daily Physical Activity.
• Alcohol is recommended to be used in moderation.
• Fruits, vegetables, plant oils are recommended in
  larger amounts.
• Dairy products are optional.

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Oriental Food Ideologies The Five Forbiddens

• Refrain from monotony
• Avoid excess
• Do not overindulge in one sitting
• Beware of exotic foods
• Do not drink to compensate eating

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Herbs

• Many oriental herbs are used as panaceas.
• Medicinal herbs are incorporated into daily
  diets.
• Some herbs are used by doctors for medical
  treatment.
• The medicinal properties of different herbs were
  discovered through observations and passed down
  through oral tradition.
• Traditional oriental cultures believe in the five
  elements fire, water, air, earth, and wood.
• Herbs are believed to have one or more
  combinations of these elements.

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Licorice

• Licorice root has been long used around the world
  for its effectiveness an overall body tonic.
• It has been used in oriental medicine to enhance
  the effects of other herbal remedies.
• Licorice root is used to flavor many traditional
  soups, made for an ill individual.

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Ginseng

• Ginseng has many beneficial qualities involved in
  medicine.
• The roots of this herb are used as seasoning in
  some oriental cultures.
• In China, ginseng is known as the king of herbs
  or the cure-all herb.

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Garlic

• Garlic is known for its curative powers around
  the world.
• Traditional oriental cooking involves the use of
  garlic.
• In some oriental cultures, garlic is involved
  with superstitious beliefs.

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Ginko Biloba

• Ginko Biloba has been known to oriental
  herbalists since ancient times.
• In China, the ginko tree is considered to be
  sacred.
• Both the ginko nut and the leaves are used in
  cooking and medicine.

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Ginger

• Ginger root has been used for its many medicinal
  properties.
• Extract from ginger root is commonly used in
  cooking.

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Customs Culture

• In Oriental cultures, emphasis is put upon
  serving others before serving oneself.
• Table manners are strictly enforced.
• Meals are considered social or family events.
• Respect for all people and things is emphasized.
• Food is valuable and considered a blessing. SO
  DONT WASTE OR INSULT IT!!

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Chinese Culture

• Family meals
• Dining arrangements
• Etiquette
• Superstitions

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Effects of Food on Chinese Social Psychology

• Traditional Chinese cultures view meal times as
  critical social interactions.
• The Chinese culture believes in hierarchies that
  place community, family, and friends above ones
  own needs.
• Narrow Socialization
• There is a belief that all social interactions
  should have levels of organization.
• Tips on how to dine with a Chinese family.

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Japanese Culture

• Family meals
• Dining arrangements
• Etiquette
• Superstitions

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Effects of Food on Japanese Social Psychology

• Traditional Japanese cultures believe in being
  very hospitable with their guests.
• Mannerisms are carefully observed.
• Heavy emphasis is put upon respecting elders.
• The Japanese are very traditional and their
  manners towards others and the way they carry
  themselves can be viewed as symbolic.
• Drinking alcohol is more accepted by the
  Japanese, however outward display of debauchery
  is unacceptable and is not tolerated.

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References

• Chin, K. W. et. Al. The histamine content of
  oriental foods. Food and Chemical Toxicology.
  Jun 1985. Vol 26 6 579-583. 3 Oct 2004. Science
  Direct. http//www.sciencedirect.com/
• Chinese Food- Can it boost your brainpower.
  About. 1999. A Primedia Company. 3 Oct 2004.
  http//chinesefood.about.com/library/weekly/aa0827
  99.htm
• Everyday Eating Customs in China. Diners
  Digest. 1997. CyberPalate. 3 Oct 2004.
  http//www.cuisinenet.com/glossary/chinaday.html
• Japanese Dining Etiquette. 2000. Japan Guide. 3
  Oct 2004. http//www.japan-guide.com/e/e2040.html
• Lanou, Amy. The Comparison of Healthy Eating the
  Chinese way and the American Way. New Century
  Nutrition. 1997. Paracelsian. 3 Oct 2004.
  http//www.newcentury.vegsource.com/pubilc_html/we
  bzine/archives/a_comparison.shtml
• Wizard of Vitamins. 2003. VitaCost. 8 Oct 2004.
  http//www.wizardofvitamins.com/science/nutrients/
  licorice.asp