Cancer is a complex disease, and its occurrence is related to various factors, including individual constitution. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, human constitution is broadly divided into nine types: balanced constitution, qi-deficiency constitution, yang-deficiency constitution, yin-deficiency constitution, phlegm-damp constitution, damp-heat constitution, qi-stagnation constitution, blood stasis constitution, and special diathesis constitution. Among these constitutions, except for the balanced type, the other eight are considered “biased” constitutions, which may increase the risk of cancer. Specifically, individuals with qi-deficiency constitution, yang-deficiency constitution, yin-deficiency constitution, qi-stagnation constitution, phlegm-damp constitution, and blood stasis constitution should pay special attention.
People with qi-deficiency constitution are prone to fatigue, easy sweating, shortness of breath, lackluster eyes, and are usually associated with overwork, this group should be vigilant about the risk of lung cancer. Those with yang-deficiency constitution fear cold, spontaneous sweating, poor digestion, prefer warm environments, especially those who crave cold, have a higher risk of stomach cancer. Yin-deficiency constitution is characterized by a lean body, dry mouth and throat, constipation, hot palms and soles, irritable emotions, due to internal overheating resulting in yin fluid depletion, also a potential high-risk group for lung cancer. People with qi-stagnation constitution are emotionally sensitive and fragile, prone to depression, chest tightness, being in this state for a long time can increase the risk of tumors. People with phlegm-damp constitution are usually obese, prefer oily and heavy-flavored foods, prone to bloating in the stomach, they are susceptible individuals to cancer. People with blood stasis constitution have dark complexion, pale lips, dark eye circles, purplish tongue, commonly seen among chronic disease patients, especially those with liver diseases, increasing the risk of liver cancer.
The key to cancer prevention lies in maintaining the body’s acid-base balance, leaning towards an alkaline constitution can effectively reduce the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to take the following measures: – Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, avoid contact with tobacco and alcohol, two strong acidic substances. – Avoid excessive intake of salty and spicy foods in the diet, choose fresh ingredients, maintain a balanced diet. – Actively cope with stress, arrange work and rest reasonably, avoid overwork. – Increase physical exercise, promote sweating, help with the metabolism of acidic substances. – Maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid unhealthy habits, and maintain a weak alkaline constitution. – Pay attention to food safety, avoid consuming contaminated food.
Furthermore, improving the living environment, ensuring indoor air circulation, reducing exposure to harmful substances such as radon. At the same time, moderate sun exposure can replenish vitamin D, which is beneficial for preventing various cancers.
Signs of weak constitution include aversion to cold, frequent acne, pigmentation (spots), allergic reactions, etc., these may indicate a decline in constitution. For example, prolonged aversion to cold may indicate insufficient yang qi in the body; frequent acne is related to a phlegm-damp constitution; pigmentation may indicate blood stasis constitution; and allergies reflect sensitive constitution issues. Addressing these issues by adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits, seeking professional medical help when necessary, is crucial for maintaining health.
