What can I eat to remove dampness and cold from the body?

Nov 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, consuming ginger, scallion whites, red dates, lamb, coix seed (Job's tears), and similar foods can help eliminate dampness and coldness from the body. Ginger is a warming ingredient that can promote blood circulation and accelerate metabolism, thereby aiding in dispelling internal cold. At the same time, ginger also has a mild diuretic effect, which can help remove dampness from the body. It is also important to maintain good lifestyle and dietary habits in daily life.

Generally speaking, consuming ginger, scallion whites, red dates, lamb, coix seed, and similar foods can help eliminate dampness and coldness from the body. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Ginger

Ginger is a warming ingredient that can promote blood circulation and accelerate metabolism, thus helping to dispel coldness from the body. Additionally, ginger has a diuretic effect, which can aid in eliminating dampness.

2. Scallion Whites

Scallion whites have the effect of warming the middle jiao and dispersing cold. They can stimulate the body to generate heat and expel coldness. Furthermore, scallion whites possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms caused by internal dampness.

3. Red Dates

Red dates can strengthen the middle jiao, replenish qi, nourish blood, and calm the mind. They enhance physical constitution and improve immunity. Additionally, red dates can regulate the endocrine system and alleviate bodily discomfort caused by dampness and coldness.

4. Lamb

Lamb is a warming and nourishing food rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It effectively replenishes yang energy in the body, thereby eliminating coldness.

5. Coix Seed

Coix seed promotes diuresis, reduces edema, strengthens the spleen, and removes dampness. It is a commonly used food for eliminating dampness. Cooking coix seed together with red beans into a porridge can enhance the effect of removing dampness.

Maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits in daily life also helps prevent and eliminate dampness and coldness from the body.

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How to regulate a cold-damp constitution

Patients with a cold-damp constitution should avoid eating cold or spicy irritant foods and must not come into contact with cold water. They may appropriately consume foods such as coix seed (yi mi) and red beans to help eliminate dampness and cold from the body. Under the guidance of a qualified physician, moxibustion or gua sha may also be performed to promote smooth meridians and improve the circulation of qi and blood. If the cold-damp condition is severe, medications such as Shen Ling Bai Zhu San, Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan, or Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan may be used for regulation according to medical advice.