The phases of the moon and changes in the body ~ Nutritionist's Column Vol.35

February 27, 2021

COLUMN

I think few people are aware of the phases of the moon in their daily lives.
In the days when people relied on moonlight to survive, the phases of the moon were said to be closely related to people's lives.

It has long been said that there is some connection between the phases of the moon and human physical and mental well-being.
There is a theory that the gravitational pull of the moon creates the tides and that this force influences humans.

The moon revolves around the earth on its axis and its shape can be seen from earth due to the sunlight shining on it.
In other words, from Earth we can only see the side of the moon that is illuminated by the sun, so the parts that are not illuminated appear missing.

The surface that receives light has a cycle, and it is said to complete one rotation in about 29 and a half days.
It's interesting that the name of the moon changes depending on the phases of the moon: the night of the 1st of each month is called a new moon, the night of the 15th is called a full moon, and the night of the 30th is called a triumphant moon.
The most well-known names for the moon based on its phases are new moon, crescent moon, and full moon, but there are also times when the moon appears as a waxing or waning quarter moon.

Just as the sun is said to be masculine and the moon to be feminine, the phases of the moon are said to be closely related to the female body.
The period from one new moon to the next, approximately 29 and a half days, is roughly the same as a woman's menstrual cycle and skin turnover, which is approximately 28 days.
Moreover, as the character for "moon" (month) is commonly used in menstruation, it is clear that the moon and the female body are closely related.
It is said that more births occur on new moon and full moon days.
Although the scientific basis has yet to be proven, I believe that being aware of the rhythm of the moon can be an important guide to understanding the state of your body and mind.

New Moon (time of cleansing and renewal):
As the sun and moon are in the same direction as seen from Earth, we cannot see the moon.
It is said that this is a time of "new beginning" energy, and the cleansing effect is strongest at this time.
From this day onwards, the moon will begin to turn full, making it a good time to reset or start something new.

For those who have been feeling unwell or depressed, the new moon can be the catalyst for changing your mindset to something a little more positive.
It is recommended that you eat foods that contain soluble dietary fiber, such as wakame seaweed, sweet potatoes, and cabbage, as well as foods that contain insoluble dietary fiber, such as soybeans, green beans, and burdock.
Additionally, foods that are high in potassium, such as watermelon, natto, bananas and fermented foods, are also recommended.
This is the perfect time to drink plenty of water and cleanse your body.

GRØN Recommended Item: Green Monster, the best for detox

Waxing Crescent Moon (active period):
The moon becomes a half moon.
Its beautiful appearance is likened to the string of a bow, and it is called the crescent moon or the bowstring moon.
Now is the time for the body and mind, which have been reset by the new moon, to take in new things.
This is also a time when you can easily imagine yourself feeling lighter, having gotten rid of unnecessary things.
It's a positive time to proactively try new things or things you haven't been able to do before.
It is recommended that you consciously take in vitamins and minerals so that your body receives the proper nutrients.
This is the time when absorption begins to increase, so be careful of high-fat and high-calorie foods.

GRØN recommended items: Criollo Berries, which are rich in minerals; Matcha All-Stars, which are rich in calcium;

Full Moon (time of absorption):
The moon is full and at its fullest.
It is said that the power of the waxing moon has the power to absorb both good and bad things into the body.
This causes fluid and toxins to accumulate in the body, making you more susceptible to swelling, fatigue, headaches, and decreased concentration.
During this time, you will absorb a lot of fat and sugar and will be more likely to gain weight, so try to eat a diet low in fat and sugar.
It is recommended that you use these unwell times as a time to "absorb" good things.
Be sure to eat plenty of nutritious vegetables and fruits, and take special care of your skin and hair.
From this day onwards, your absorption ability will decrease, so if you are going to start a diet, it is recommended to start after the full moon.

GRØN Recommended Item: Red Heat, rich in polyphenols and well-balanced with amino acids

Waning Moon (Detox Time):
It is in the state where it becomes a half moon as it gradually becomes thinner towards the new moon.
It rises at midnight and sets around noon, so it can sometimes be seen in the blue sky after dawn.
It's the time in the process of releasing what has been stored up during the full moon.

As we approach the new moon, this is a time when toxins are easily expelled from the body, so start actively consuming foods that have a strong detoxifying effect.
It is also recommended to drink plenty of hot water and make sure to thoroughly eliminate waste products from the body.
It is also a time for maintenance, such as lymphatic massage and half-body baths, to expel toxins that have built up in the body.
This is a time when you are likely to feel unstable, so try to take the time to slowly check in with your physical condition and emotions.

GRØN Recommended Items: Green Monster, perfect for detoxing, and Red Heat, which contains superfoods such as root vegetables

You may not have been aware of the cycle of the moon until now. Why not turn your attention to the existence of the moon and its cycle and live a lifestyle that is in tune with the changes?

Protein Blend Green Monster 20g / 320 yen (excluding tax)

Protein Blend Red Heat 20g / 320 yen (excluding tax)

Pancake Mix & Protein 227g / 900 yen (excluding tax)

Protein Blend Criollo Berries 20g / 370 yen (excluding tax)

Protein Blend Matcha All Stars 20g / 370 yen (excluding tax)

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Nutritionist, Food Education Instructor, Food 6th Industrialization Producer Level 4
Ayako Ishihara

A nutritional advisor in the healthcare field and an agribusiness professional.
She is involved in a variety of activities specializing in the fields of beauty and health, including giving lectures to Miss World Japan candidates.

With the philosophy of "enriching the mind and body through food and realizing a vibrant society where people and communities are connected," he founded i-Field Co., Ltd. in 2013 and serves as its representative.
He is a core member of the food team for "DINING OUT," which opens outdoor restaurants in various regions, and also participates in fashion brand projects.
She is also involved in the promotion of local ingredients, product development and production specializing in "health" and "beauty," branding, concept design, food hygiene, sales promotion, training planning and management, etc. She is in charge of nutritional supervision for GRØN's product development, proposing ways to incorporate them more effectively into consumer health.

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