What foods should be avoided and what foods can help regulate poor spleen function?

Apr 21, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Poor spleen function can generally be improved by consuming foods such as yam porridge, barley porridge, and ginger mutton soup. Yam porridge helps regulate conditions caused by spleen qi deficiency, such as chronic diarrhea and reduced appetite. Barley porridge helps manage symptoms due to spleen deficiency with excessive dampness, including urinary difficulty, edema, and diarrhea. Ginger mutton soup helps alleviate symptoms caused by spleen yang deficiency, such as poor digestion, cold limbs, and sensitivity to cold in the stomach and spleen.

When the spleen is not functioning well, it is generally advisable to consume foods such as yam porridge, barley porridge, and ginger mutton soup for调理 (regulation and nourishment). Specific details are as follows:

1. Yam Porridge

Yam has the effects of tonifying the spleen and stomach, promoting fluid production, and benefiting the lungs. Consuming yam porridge can help regulate symptoms caused by spleen qi deficiency, such as chronic diarrhea and reduced appetite.

2. Barley Porridge

Barley helps drain dampness, strengthen the spleen, and stop diarrhea. Eating barley porridge can aid in managing conditions caused by spleen deficiency with excessive dampness, including difficult urination, edema, and loose stools.

3. Ginger Mutton Soup

Ginger warms the meridians, dispels cold, and harmonizes the stomach, while mutton provides warmth and tonifies yang energy. Consuming ginger mutton soup can help regulate symptoms caused by spleen yang deficiency, such as poor digestion, cold limbs, and sensitivity to cold in the stomach and spleen.

In addition, glutinous rice may also be consumed in moderation for spleen regulation. If any physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should be followed according to medical advice.