What body constitution is prone to diarrhea when it's cold?
Apr 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Diarrhea, commonly referred to as "having loose bowels," may be more likely to occur in cold weather, particularly among individuals with a cold constitution, weak spleen and stomach, or poor immunity. Those with a cold constitution may easily develop diarrhea when it's cold, often accompanied by cold hands and feet. In addition, improper diet can also lead to diarrhea. During treatment, patients should eat more warm-natured foods.
Diarrhea, commonly known as "having loose bowels," may be more likely to occur in cold weather due to a cold constitution, spleen and stomach deficiency, or simply from getting chilled in the abdominal area. Specific causes are as follows:
1. Cold Constitution
People prone to diarrhea in cold weather may have a cold constitution. With this constitution, cold temperatures can easily lead to cold hands and feet, causing gastrointestinal dysfunction. Increased intestinal motility may then result in diarrhea.
2. Spleen and Stomach Deficiency
Diarrhea during cold weather could also stem from weakness of the spleen and stomach. Cold conditions can chill the body and disrupt gastrointestinal function, leading to diarrhea. Additionally, frequently consuming raw or cold foods in cold weather may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and contribute to diarrhea. Under medical guidance, patients may take herbal medicines such as Shenling Baizhu San or Renshen Jianpi Pills for treatment.
3. Getting Chilled
In cold weather, failure to keep the abdomen warm may lead to abdominal chilling, which can trigger diarrhea. If symptoms are mild, applying heat therapy (such as a warm compress) may help. For more severe cases, medications such as probiotics or montmorillonite powder may be used under a doctor’s instructions.
Besides these factors, improper diet can also cause diarrhea. During treatment, patients should eat more warm-natured foods and pay attention to keeping their bodies warm.
