Question

Can someone help me with these questions, please? Thank you.

1. The hot-cold system is prevalent among the Mexican and Caribbean cultures described in this module.
   • How does this system vary between these two cultures?
   • In what ways are the systems similar?
   • How does each culture’s individual health belief influence the hot-cold system?

Answer 1

The hot-cold system is the most cultural and diverse system, which is followed by several countries, including Africa, Latino and Carrabin, etc.

#. The Mexican hot-cold theory is based on the concept that the world’s resources are limited and must remain in balance. People must stay in harmony with the environment. Hot has the connotation of strength. Cold has the connotation of weakness. When the theory is applied to foods, items can be classified according to proximity to the sun, method of preparation, or how the food is thought to affect the body. Meals balanced between hot and cold foods are considered to be health promoting. Unbalanced meals may cause illness. Items generally considered hot are alcohol, aromatic beverages, beef, chiles, corn husks, oils, onions, pork, radishes, and tamales. Cold foods include citrus fruits, dairy products, most fresh vegetables, goat, and tropical fruits. some foods such as beans, corn products, rice products, sugary foods, and wheat products can be classified as either hot or cold depending on how they are prepared.

Hot and cold system in Caribbean culture - The hot-cold valence refers to the traditional belief that heat opens the body and facilitates the blood’s free flow, whereas cold causes the blood to stop flowing and clog the arteries, veins and womb. Heat comes from the sun, work, sleeping, burns, cooking, and reproductive activities. Linked to the hot/cold dichotomy is a system of blood beliefs where an excess or lack of cold or heat in the body through exposure or diet causes illness. Blood then becomes ‘bad’ or dirty.

#. Hot and cold system are similar in terms of its affect on health . In some culture hot is considered as strength while in other it's considered as heat opens the body and improves blood circulation . Total it means that it improves the health. Cold system resembles weakness and impedes the blood flow hence affects the health .