In summer, the high temperatures often make people feel uncomfortable, affecting appetite and mental state. This may be a manifestation of weakened spleen and stomach, which in Chinese medicine is believed to result in symptoms like indigestion, diarrhea, and pale complexion. To address the weakened spleen and stomach in summer, the following measures can be taken:
Ensure a diverse diet, focus on consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, grains rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, such as Job’s tears, Chinese yam, millet, and red beans, which are easy to digest and can effectively nourish the spleen and stomach.
Establish a healthy eating routine, eat regularly and in moderation, avoid overeating or binge eating to reduce the burden on the spleen and stomach.
Choose light cooking methods, limit intake of fried, spicy, and cold foods, prefer dishes that are easy to digest to help the spleen and stomach function better.
Moderate exercise like walking, yoga, and tai chi can enhance metabolism and digestion, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. Ensure a balance between exercise and rest to maintain normal body temperature and hydration.
Good sleep is crucial for the spleen and stomach. In summer, it is advisable to go to bed early and wake up early, ensure sufficient sleep, reduce staying up late, maintain a cheerful mood, reduce stress, which helps improve appetite and enhance the condition of the spleen and stomach.
Chinese medicine therapies can provide additional assistance. Considering that dampness and heat are likely to harm the spleen and stomach in summer, you may consider:
– Using spleen-tonifying Chinese herbal medicine under professional guidance, such as Atractylodes macrocephala, ginseng, and poria cocos soaked in water or cooked in soup. – Massaging the abdomen to improve blood circulation and alleviate discomfort in the spleen and stomach. – Acupuncturing specific acupoints (like ST36, SP9, and SP3) to regulate the spleen and stomach, which should be carried out by a professional physician. – In severe cases, use appropriate Chinese patent medicine under a doctor’s advice, such as Fructus ziziphi jujubae pill.
Due to significant individual differences in constitution, it is best to consult a Chinese medicine practitioner for personalized treatment plans. Maintain a positive attitude, enjoy summer, and promote physical and mental health.
