In traditional Chinese medicine theory, the spleen and stomach are metaphorically referred to as the “foundation of acquired constitution” in the human body, serving as important organs for digesting, absorbing, and transforming food nutrients. Once the spleen and stomach functions weaken or become deficient, it may lead to poor nutrient absorption, decline in physical health, and even trigger various illnesses. Therefore, protecting and nurturing the spleen and stomach are crucial. The following will introduce 4 types of yellow foods that have good effects on invigorating the spleen and nourishing the stomach, while also enhancing constitution.
1. Soybeans
Soybeans are praised as the “plant meat,” rich in high-quality proteins, various vitamins, carbohydrates, fats, and trace elements. Traditional Chinese medicine views soybeans as having a balanced nature and sweet taste, capable of invigorating the spleen, benefiting Qi, aiding digestion, and stopping diarrhea. It plays a regulatory role in conditions such as weak spleen and stomach, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. Soybeans can be processed into foods like soy milk, tofu, and tofu skin, making them a good choice for invigorating the spleen and nourishing the stomach.
2. Corn
Corn is one of the widely planted cereal crops globally, and its yellow husk and germ contain abundant dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, and antioxidants. According to traditional Chinese medicine, corn has a balanced nature and sweet taste, capable of invigorating the spleen, stimulating appetite, promoting diuresis, and reducing swelling. It has an improving effect on weak spleen and stomach, poor digestion, and edema. Furthermore, the zeaxanthin and lutein in corn are beneficial for eye health.
3. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a common and highly nutritious vegetable, with its yellow flesh rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium, and other nutrients. Traditional Chinese medicine considers pumpkin to have a warm nature and sweet taste, able to invigorate the spleen and stomach, moisten the lungs, suppress coughs, promote diuresis, and reduce swelling. It has an auxiliary therapeutic effect on weak spleen and stomach, coughs with phlegm, and edema. In addition, the dietary fiber in pumpkin can help alleviate constipation and lower cholesterol. Pumpkins can be steamed for consumption or made into dishes like pumpkin pancakes and pumpkin porridge.
4. Golden Needle Mushroom
Golden needle mushroom, also known as enoki mushroom or velvet foot, is a dual-purpose ingredient for food and medicine. It contains rich nutrients such as trace elements, vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, with effects such as calming the mind, invigorating the spleen and stomach, reducing swelling, and promoting diuresis. Golden needle mushrooms have a certain improvement effect on weak spleen and stomach, poor appetite, and edema. They can be cooked in soups, stir-fried, or used in cold dishes, making them a delicious choice for invigorating the spleen and nourishing the stomach.
In addition to consuming the above “4 yellow” foods, attention to the following points is necessary for managing weak spleen and stomach:
1. Timing and Quantity
Cultivate the habit of eating meals at regular intervals, avoid overeating or going hungry, and maintain moderate meal portions to prevent excessive burden on the spleen and stomach.
2. Light Diet
Avoid excessive intake of spicy, fried, and greasy foods to prevent irritation to the spleen and stomach. Maintaining a light diet helps reduce the burden on the spleen and stomach.
3. Moderate Exercise
Engaging in appropriate physical activities can help stimulate intestinal motility and aid in digestion, beneficial for improving symptoms of weak spleen and stomach. However, avoid excessive exercise to prevent harm to the spleen and stomach.
4. Emotional Management
Maintain a good emotional state, avoid excessive stress, anxiety, or depression, as these emotional fluctuations can affect the normal functioning of the spleen and stomach.
5. Smoking, Alcohol Restriction
Tobacco and alcohol can stimulate the gastric mucosa, increase the burden on the spleen and stomach, therefore quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can protect the spleen and stomach.
6. Adequate Sleep
Ensure sufficient sleep time, as good sleep helps in the repair and regeneration of the spleen and stomach, enhancing the digestive system’s function.
7. Avoid Cold
The spleen and stomach prefer warmth over cold, so avoid consuming too many cold foods such as cold drinks and watermelon, especially in air-conditioned environments where keeping warm is necessary.
8. Acupressure
By massaging acupoints related to the spleen and stomach like Zusanli and Zhongwan, blood circulation can be promoted, enhancing the function of the spleen and stomach.
9. Traditional Chinese Medicine
Under the guidance of a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, appropriate use of spleen-invigorating and stomach-nourishing Chinese medicine such as Codonopsis, Atractylodes, and Poria can enhance the digestive capacity of the spleen and stomach.
By implementing the comprehensive management mentioned above, weak spleen and stomach conditions can be effectively improved, enhancing the overall health level of the body. Only with a healthy spleen and stomach can we achieve a healthy body!
