Ever wondered why you feel warmer after a high-protein meal? And does the straw mushroom you eat count as a "Hot Herb" in Traditional Chinese Medicine? Let's clear up the confusion about Food Energy!
🔬 Dimension 1: Science – The 'Heat' of Metabolism
This is the principle of TEF (Thermic Effect of Food):
• High Protein = High Metabolism: Protein requires 20-30% of its total calories just to be digested and metabolized, much higher than fats or carbs.
• The Result is Heat: This increased energy expenditure releases heat, known as Thermogenesis, making you feel slightly warmer after consuming a protein-rich meal.
• Mushroom Take: If you consume concentrated protein from straw mushrooms (like in dried form), your body speeds up digestion, leading to a temporary rise in heat!
☯️ Dimension 2: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – 'Cooling' for Balance
TCM views food properties based on their Energetic Impact on the body's balance (Yin-Yang):
• Straw Mushroom is 'Cooling': According to TCM texts, straw mushroom is sweet and considered Cool or Neutral in nature. Its medicinal properties include clearing internal heat, nourishing the liver, and restoring internal balance.
• The Difference: The "heat" from protein is a physiological process (digestion), while the "cooling property" is its therapeutic effect on your internal state.
🔥 Simple Takeaway for Weight Loss:
Eating protein (from mushrooms or other sources) definitely helps you burn more calories right after a meal! Whether it’s scientifically hot or energetically cool, it's a win for your health!