The concepts of hot and cold

Although practices may be different between people from different areas, the concept of “hot” and “cold” influences health care decisions and food choices. The thought behind these beliefs is that illness is a result of imbalances and that correction of the imbalances will restore health.

For example, for many people from China, pregnancy is a “hot” condition or state. Blood loss associated with childbirth makes woman cold, so she should eat “hot” food to replenish energy. Which foods are considered “hot” can vary between geographic areas and may not be related to temperature, flavor, or texture of the food. In addition to food choices, these beliefs can affect other behaviors (e.g., after childbirth, women may stay at home for an extended time or dress warmly).

People from the following countries may make decisions based on the concepts of “hot” and “cold:” China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, India, Philippines, and Cambodia, as well as some Arab and African countries.