How to regulate spleen yang deficiency

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. He Haochen

Introduction

Spleen yang deficiency belongs to spleen and stomach cold deficiency, namely deficient decline of spleen yang. Common symptoms include limb edema, pale and tender tongue, stomachache, loose stools, decreased resistance, cold limbs, poor appetite, phlegm, diarrhea, white tongue coating, and impaired urination. In daily life, one may consume more foods that strengthen the spleen and benefit the stomach, such as duck meat, sweet potatoes, wheat, lamb, glutinous rice, hawthorn, goji berries, astragalus, red dates, and cinnamon.

　　Spleen yang deficiency syndrome is generally caused by dietary imbalances, such as consuming too many raw or cold foods, poor rest, or pre-existing physical weakness—especially in individuals who overthink or experience mental strain. To benefit the body, it's essential to pay closer attention to diet and maintain a balanced routine of work and rest. So how can spleen yang deficiency be regulated?

How to Regulate Spleen Yang Deficiency
Spleen yang deficiency belongs to the category of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, also known as deficient spleen yang. Common symptoms include swollen limbs, pale and flaccid tongue, stomach pain, loose stools, reduced immunity, cold extremities, poor appetite, phlegm, diarrhea, white tongue coating, and impaired urination. In daily life, one may consume more spleen- and stomach-strengthening foods such as duck meat, sweet potatoes, wheat, lamb, glutinous rice, hawthorn, goji berries, astragalus, red dates, and cinnamon. Under a doctor’s guidance, oral administration of Jin Kui Shen Qi Wan (a traditional Chinese medicine formula) may be considered. It is advisable to minimize intake of lotus seeds, wood ear mushrooms, cabbage, cilantro, bitter melon, tofu, celery, and mung beans.

　　Treatment for spleen yang deficiency primarily relies on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), supplemented by physical therapies such as acupuncture. Spleen yang deficiency refers to insufficient yang energy in the spleen, which can impair its transportation and transformation functions, leading to symptoms like abdominal distension, constipation, and indigestion. The spleen is regarded as the foundation of acquired constitution; thus, spleen yang deficiency can directly affect the normal functioning of other organs. TCM regulation focuses on warming the yang, strengthening the spleen, boosting qi, and eliminating dampness to promote healthy circulation of qi and blood. Acupuncture can warm the spleen meridians and has shown good therapeutic effects in promoting recovery. Regular self-massage of abdominal areas and acupoints along the spleen meridians of the hands and feet, eating easily digestible and absorbable foods, and avoiding cold and irritating foods are recommended.

　　Patients are advised to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, follow a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and ensure sufficient sleep every day. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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What Should One Eat for Spleen Yang Deficiency?

Individuals with Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency should also pay closer attention to daily health maintenance. For example, they may consume more goji berries, cowpeas, sesame seeds, dog meat, and lamb bones—commonly available foods that effectively alleviate the symptoms of Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency and help prevent the onset of additional diseases. The therapeutic effects are relatively pronounced. Additionally, consuming congee made from japonica rice and *Atractylodes macrocephala* is recommended; this nourishes the Spleen and Stomach while being easily digestible.

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Differences Between Spleen Qi Deficiency and Spleen Yang Deficiency

The primary distinction between Spleen Qi Deficiency Syndrome and Spleen Yang Deficiency Syndrome lies in their differing clinical manifestations. Patients with Spleen Qi Deficiency Syndrome typically present with a sallow complexion, shortness of breath, reluctance to speak, loose stools, chronic diarrhea with anal prolapse, fatigue and weakness in the limbs, muscle atrophy, abdominal distension, and hematemesis. In females, symptoms may include menorrhagia, profuse clear leukorrhea, incomplete voiding or cloudy urine resembling rice-washing water, a pale tongue, and a weak pulse. In contrast, patients with Spleen Yang Deficiency Syndrome primarily exhibit a pale complexion.

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Differences Between Spleen Yang Deficiency and Spleen Yin Deficiency

The distinction between Spleen-Yin deficiency and Spleen-Yang deficiency lies in their etiologies, tongue appearances, pulse qualities, and clinical manifestations. Etiologies of Spleen-Yin deficiency include excessive physical fatigue, chronic pulmonary diseases that remain unresolved over a prolonged period, and excessive mental rumination. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen governs the four limbs; thus, excessive fatigue may impair both Spleen-Yin and Spleen-Yang. Prognosis varies among individuals with different constitutional types; patients with Yin deficiency and internal heat are particularly prone to developing Spleen-Yin deficiency.

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What Are the Symptoms of Spleen Yang Deficiency?

Symptoms of Spleen Yang Deficiency include anemia and obesity. Women with Spleen Deficiency are particularly prone to anemia, which often leads to dizziness. Additionally, patients with Spleen Deficiency frequently experience profound fatigue and lack of energy, often giving the impression of depression; in severe cases, they may develop clinical depression.