Diet

The goal of the Taoist diet is to create qi (energy) out of food while balancing yin and yang. The diet isn't a set code of strict rules but rather somewhat of a reminder for Taoists on how to cultivate qi, unlike other religions like Islam or Judaism with what's halal and kosher. (some Taoist schools are stricter, this is in general)

Principles

Yin foods include cold, calming foods. Think cucumber and watermelon to name a few. Yang foods are warm and give you energy, think beef, chicken, spices and fish. Balancing yin and yang is important, for example if you're sick (which means you have too much yin) you should eat more yang foods. If you feel overheated or agitated (too much yang) you should eat more yin foods.

Seasons

You should eat seasonally, changing your diet depending on the season is to maintain harmony (pínghé) in the body. This practice is also common in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), which the Taoist diet borrows elements from.

Spring: Light foods like vegetables to match the renewal of nature

Summer(+Late Summer): Yin food to cool you down

Autumn: Dense foods like potatoes to prepare for winter

Winter: Warm yang foods to maintain energy during the colder months

What to eat

Overeating can weaken one's qi. Taoists recommend 30 chews per bite so food goes down properly. Fasting, including but not limited to the occasional grain-free days (helps cultivation) to help rest your digestive system. Foods like herbs and rice help boost your qi. Warm and cold tea can help maintain your balance by drinking warm or cold tea depending on if you have too much or too little yin/yang.

What to not eat

You should try to limit intake of foods that drain your qi like fried food, processsed sugar, alchol, etc. Basically anything unhealthy. Too much meat can drain your jing (essence) and dairy can form mucus, which blocks your qi.