Spleen Qi Deficiency Explained

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stress and emotional imbalance can be a contributing factor to spleen qi deficiency. A vise-versa.

Emotions such as worry, overthinking, and anxiety can weaken the spleen and interfere with its ability to transform and transport food and fluids in the body. Additionally, stress can also lead to imbalances in the body's hormonal and immune systems, which can further weaken the spleen and lead to symptoms of spleen qi deficiency.

Symptoms of Spleen qi deficiency

Some common symptoms of spleen qi deficiency include fatigue, poor appetite, bloating, abdominal distension, loose stools, and a tendency to bruise easily. In TCM, this condition is often associated with a lack of energy, weakness, and a susceptibility to illness.

Causes for Spleen qi deficiency

As you now know, overworking or overexertion can deplete the body's energy reserves and weaken the spleen. In addition to stress there are other contributing factors that can contribute to this spleen qi deficiency

1. Poor diet: Processed, greasy, and heavy foods can put a strain on the spleen and interfere with its function

2. Overwork: Stress and overexerting oneself can deplete the body's energy reserves and weaken the spleen over time

3. Chronic illness: Because the spleen is an important part of the body's immune system, and chronic illness can put a strain on this system.

4. Hereditary factors: Some people may be more susceptible to spleen qi deficiency due to hereditary factors

5. Aging: As we age, the spleen naturally becomes weaker and less efficient at transforming and transporting food and fluids in the body

6. Environmental factors: Exposure to damp or humid environments can also contribute to spleen qi deficiency

Remedies for Spleen qi deficiency

Some dietary and lifestyle recommendations for spleen qi deficiency include eating warm, cooked foods, avoiding cold or raw foods, avoiding excess dampness and phlegm-producing foods such as dairy and sugar, and engaging in moderate exercise and relaxation techniques such as qi gong or yoga.

Getting rest is also key to management.

Sleep plays a crucial role in managing stress because it allows the body to rest and restore itself. During sleep, the body performs essential functions such as repairing damaged tissues, consolidating memories, and regulating hormones that help to manage stress. Lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep can lead to increased levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Additionally, sleep deprivation can lead to physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and muscle tension, which can further exacerbate stress. Therefore, getting adequate, high-quality sleep is an important aspect of managing stress and promoting overall health and well-being.

The Sleep Edit is designed to offer a variety of ways for you to get a good nights, rest.

Want to know more? We wrote a blog specifically about managing stress and spleen qi deficiency.