Tag Archives: migrating motor complex

Earth: Eat Breakfast 7-9 am

Dr. Elizabeth Cox, ND, LAc Posted on by

We are just past the midpoint of the days of the Earth/Transition season which focus on Stomach, Spleen & Pancreas wellness. The optimal time to eat breakfast is between 7-9AM during the two hour energy peak of the Stomach according to the Chinese Medicine 24 hour clock. Breakfast is a great opportunity to jump start your health and nutrition goals each day. In order to optimize digestion, space your snacks and meals 4-5 hours apart.  This allows the MMC, migrating motor complex, of the small intestine to complete one full cycle, sweeping food into the intestine for digestion and sweeping … Continue reading →

Soup Cleanse Rules

Dr. Elizabeth Cox, ND, LAc Posted on by

There are just a few basic ‘rulz’ and a lot of room for making it your own.  In my practice, I have learned that co-creating plans supports your wellness journey. No Grazing. Allow 4 to 5 hours between each meal.  This allows the nerve complex known as the migrating motor complex to move food out of our stomachs through the small intestine, optimizing nutrient absorption, maximizing digestive power while sweeping misplaced bacteria into the colon for elimination.  The MMC starts two hours after eating. Snacking between meals slows or stops the digestive process. Fermented Foods. Add one to two servings … Continue reading →

F4: Separator of the Pure from the Impure

Dr. Elizabeth Cox, ND, LAc Posted on by

SMALL INTESTINES THE SEPARATOR OF PURE FROM IMPURE             As most of the planet is enduring and even setting heat records during the peak of the fiery summer season, in the Southern U.S., we are experiencing an unseasonably cool period this week.  Here we continue with our seasonal theme of the fire element and the elemental organ system. The element of fire embodies the bright, light, energetic essence of yang. However, fire without the grounding influence of Earth easily flares out of control.  The 2nd century dictionary Shuowen jiezi defines the heart as an Earth element, predating the concept of Heart … Continue reading →