In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach are revered as the “foundation of acquired constitution”, as they are not only the fundamental source of qi and blood production but also closely linked to overall health. By observing the appearance and texture of stool, traditional Chinese medicine can gain insight into the working status of the spleen and stomach. The following content will reveal the health information of the spleen and stomach reflected by five types of stool morphology.
Ideal Form: Banana Shape
The healthiest defecation state is banana-shaped or elongated, with a smooth surface and smooth defecation, indicating the efficient operation of the digestive system and the good coordination of spleen and stomach functions. It signifies the balance of fiber and water in the diet, directly reflecting spleen and stomach health.
Dry Small Balls: Pellet-like Stools
If the stool appears as hard, small pellets that are difficult to pass, it may be a sign of constipation, reflecting dehydration or insufficient fiber intake. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is considered Yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, insufficient fluid in the spleen and stomach, requiring moisturizing regulation, and increasing the intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Thin and Long Alarm: Pencil-shaped Stools
Stool being thin and long, resembling a pencil, may indicate intestinal narrowing or weakened spleen and stomach function, potentially relating to conditions such as rectal tumors. Prompt medical examination is crucial in such situations.
Watery and Shapeless: Soft Mud-like Stools
Stools that are thin, close to being watery, without a fixed shape, may indicate poor digestion or decreased spleen and stomach function, suggesting risks of chronic diarrhea, food intolerance, or enteritis. Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes regulating the middle energizer, avoiding the consumption of cold foods to nourish the spleen and stomach.
Inconsistent Before and After: Mixed Type
The front part of the stool is hard and the rear part is soft, indicating initial difficulty in defecation but gradual improvement, which is related to an unbalanced diet or periodic imbalance of the spleen and stomach. Balanced diet and regular lifestyle can be beneficial in such cases.
Daily Maintenance Strategies
– Balanced Diet: Consume more fruits and vegetables high in fiber, reduce intake of stimulating foods to maintain spleen and stomach health.
– Sufficient Water Intake: Drink at least eight glasses of water daily, supplemented with soups to aid in defecation.
– Moderate Exercise: Engage in 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily to promote intestinal vitality.
– Regular Sleeping Patterns: Maintain good sleep habits, avoid staying up late.
– Timely Medical Consultation: Seek medical attention early if experiencing abnormal bowel movements.
– Emotional Management: Maintain a positive attitude, reduce stress and relax, as emotional distress can also harm the spleen and stomach.
Stool serves as a health indicator, and its changes remind us to pay attention to our lifestyle habits. After your next trip to the toilet, consider performing a simple self-check, making small lifestyle changes to protect the spleen and stomach, and promote overall health.
