When the kidney qi is deficient, choosing suitable foods can help nourish it. Dioscorea opposita, as an ancient Chinese medicine and a daily food, can tonify the spleen and kidney, especially suitable for gently replenishing kidney yang in summer. It is also suitable for long-term consumption by those with spleen deficiency, lung deficiency, and kidney deficiency, known as the “natural kidney tonifying king”. Lotus seeds are divided into red and white lotus seeds. Red lotus seeds are firm and have better effects on tonifying the kidney and replenishing blood; white lotus seeds have a delicate taste and are better for spleen health. Lotus seeds can be consumed through traditional recipes such as lotus seed congee, red dates tremella lotus seed soup, etc. Lotus seed heart tea can clear heart fire, while lotus seed wine significantly tonifies the kidney.
Goji berries have significant kidney tonifying effects and it is recommended to consume them in moderation daily, similar to chewing raisins. Those with yin deficiency constitution should control the intake to prevent excessive internal heat. Yardlong beans have multiple effects such as regulating vital energy, tonifying the spleen, and kidney. Li Shizhen also highly praised its nourishing benefits. Black rice, as it is dark in color and enters the kidney, can nourish yin, tonify the kidney, benefit the spleen and stomach, and invigorate qi and blood. Its husk is rich in anti-aging anthocyanins and should be properly soaked or pressure-cooked before consumption.
Litchi and shrimp are also good for tonifying the kidney. Litchi is sweet and warm in nature, not only delicious but also nourishing qi and blood and treating kidney deficiency causing nocturnal emission. Shrimp, due to its warm nature and high nutritional value, is particularly beneficial for male health. As for oysters, being one of the foods with the highest zinc content, it has always been the first choice for kidney tonification, with a significant effect on enhancing male functions.
In addition to dietary supplements, simple health care practices can also assist in tonifying the kidney, such as rubbing the lower abdomen which can invigorate the spleen, nourish qi, and tonify yin and the kidney. When performing the technique, rub your hands to warm them and massage the corresponding acupoints in a specific way. Rubbing the kidney point stimulates the acupoints on the feet, promotes the harmonization of the heart and kidney, and enhances the body’s functions. In addition, maintaining moderate exercise, boosting self-confidence, staying away from tobacco and alcohol, and having a balanced diet are also crucial for enhancing kidney qi. Balancing the intake of various foods and ensuring comprehensive nutrition are effective ways to improve kidney deficiency.
