How to manage excessive dampness in the body
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, dampness accumulation may be caused by factors such as weakened spleen and stomach function, prolonged exposure to a humid environment, improper diet, lack of physical activity, and imbalance of intestinal flora. It is recommended to seek medical advice promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then regulate the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, and other methods. Managing dampness accumulation requires long-term commitment and a comprehensive approach that combines dietary adjustments, exercise, and environmental improvements.
Generally, heavy dampness in the body may be caused by factors such as weakened function of the spleen and stomach, prolonged exposure to humid environments, improper diet, lack of physical activity, and imbalances in intestinal flora. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and, under a physician's guidance, manage the condition through general treatments, medications, and other methods. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Weakened spleen and stomach function: When the spleen and stomach have reduced capacity to metabolize dampness, dampness accumulates in the body, causing heavy dampness. Symptoms include physical heaviness, fatigue, and poor appetite. Incorporate more spleen-strengthening foods into your diet, such as yam, millet, and pumpkin. Avoid overeating, chew food thoroughly to reduce the burden on the digestive system, and gently massage the abdomen to promote digestion and dampness elimination.
2. Prolonged exposure to damp environments: Living or working in a damp environment can allow external dampness to enter the body, increasing internal dampness. Symptoms may include sticky skin and joint discomfort. Maintain a well-ventilated and dry environment, frequently air bedding and clothing, avoid staying in damp areas for extended periods, limit outdoor activities during rainy weather, and promptly change out of wet clothes after being outdoors.
3. Improper diet: Long-term consumption of excessive raw, cold, greasy, or sweet foods can impair the function of the spleen and stomach, leading to dampness accumulation and symptoms such as abdominal distension and sticky stools. Adjust your diet by reducing intake of cold and sweet foods, and consume more dampness-removing foods like red beans, coix seed, and wax gourd. Opt for bland and easily digestible meals.
4. Lack of exercise: Prolonged sitting and insufficient physical activity slow down metabolism, preventing proper elimination of dampness and leading to its accumulation in the body, causing symptoms such as fatigue. Engage in daily physical activities such as brisk walking, jogging, or yoga for at least 30 minutes each session. Sweating helps expel dampness and improves metabolic function.
5. Imbalanced intestinal flora: Disruption of intestinal microbiota can impair digestion and absorption, leading to abnormal dampness metabolism and worsening dampness-related symptoms, which may alternate between diarrhea and constipation. Patients should follow medical advice to use probiotics such as Bifidobacterium triple viable capsules, Bacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus acidophilus viable granules, or Bacillus licheniformis viable capsules to regulate intestinal flora. Dietary adjustments should also be made to improve dampness-related conditions.
Managing excessive dampness requires long-term commitment and a comprehensive approach involving dietary adjustments, regular exercise, and environmental improvements. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, cultivate healthy lifestyle habits, and use integrated strategies to promote the elimination of dampness, helping the body feel lighter and maintaining overall health.
