Modern life is becoming faster-paced, and people often overlook bodily signals due to tight work schedules, irregular eating habits, and high stress levels, especially when it comes to defecation. It is a direct reflection of one’s health status. An ancient saying goes, “Observe the stool to understand the body,” different stool forms reflect different body conditions: loose stools may indicate spleen and stomach weakness, hard black stools may suggest heat in the spleen and stomach, while pellet-like stools symbolize Yin deficiency and excessive internal heat. Do you truly understand your own physical condition?
If stools are loose, light in color, frequent, accompanied by bloating, decreased appetite, it is often a sign of spleen and stomach weakness. In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen is responsible for digestion and absorption, decreased function can lead to indigestion. Adjustment strategies should include a light diet, choosing foods that are easy to digest and spleen nourishing like Chinese yam, millet, Job’s tears, and ensuring adequate rest.
Conversely, if stools are hard, dark in color, difficult to pass, with bad breath, yellow urine, this indicates heat in the spleen and stomach. Excessive heat consumes the body’s fluids, leading to constipation. Improvements include reducing intake of spicy and fried foods, adding cooling and moistening foods such as cucumber, watermelon, and spinach.
Small, dry stools resembling pellets are often associated with Yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, characterized by insufficient body fluids, internal heat, accompanied by night sweats, heat in the palms and soles, and dry mouth. Treatment involves nourishing Yin and reducing heat, consuming foods like tremella, lily, goji berries, mulberries, while also maintaining a calm mindset to restore internal balance.
Observing stool is part of self-health management. The above views are based on traditional Chinese medicine theory, individual differences must be considered, and appropriate medical advice sought when necessary. Key to maintaining a healthy life is regular routines, balanced diet, moderate exercise, and a positive mindset.
Furthermore, stool color conveys information: persistent yellow-green with diarrhea or red-black stools indicate digestive issues or possible internal bleeding, prompt medical attention is required. Ensure sufficient daily hydration to prevent constipation, establish a regular bowel movement habit, manage stress through methods like meditation, yoga for relaxation, all promote overall health effectively.
In conclusion, in a fast-paced life, pay attention to and listen to the body’s subtle language, provide appropriate care, as health is the most precious wealth.
