How to eliminate excessive dampness in the body
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, excessive dampness in the body may be caused by factors such as weakened spleen and stomach function, prolonged exposure to a humid environment, consumption of raw, cold, or greasy foods, intestinal flora imbalance, hypothyroidism, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and, under a doctor's guidance, improve the condition through general treatments, medication, and other approaches. In daily life, one can consistently engage in a 30-minute brisk walk each day to help expel dampness through sweating.
Generally, excessive dampness in the body may be caused by factors such as weakened function of the spleen and stomach in transforming and transporting fluids, prolonged exposure to a humid environment, consumption of raw, cold, or greasy foods, imbalance of intestinal flora, and hypothyroidism. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause, followed by improvements under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, and other methods. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Weak function of the spleen and stomach in transforming and transporting fluids: When the spleen and stomach have a reduced capacity to process dampness, dampness accumulates in the body, manifesting as bodily heaviness and sticky stools. It is advisable to regularly consume foods that strengthen the spleen, such as Chinese yam, lotus seeds, and stir-fried coix seed, prepared as porridge or soup. Avoid overeating and take a walk after meals to promote the spleen and stomach's ability to transform and transport fluids.
2. Prolonged exposure to a humid environment: External dampness may invade the body, increasing internal dampness, often accompanied by sticky skin and heavy-feeling joints. Maintain good ventilation in living and working environments, use dehumidifiers to lower humidity, frequently air bedding and clothes, and minimize outdoor activities on rainy days to prevent further dampness invasion.
3. Consumption of raw, cold, or greasy foods: Long-term intake of cold beverages, fried foods, and sweets may impair the functions of the spleen and stomach, leading to fluid retention and symptoms such as abdominal distension and thick, greasy tongue coating. Adjust your diet by reducing the intake of raw, cold, and greasy foods, and consume more dampness-resolving beverages such as red bean soup and wax gourd soup. Adding warming ingredients like ginger and Sichuan pepper while cooking can help neutralize dampness.
4. Imbalance of intestinal flora: Dysbiosis of the intestinal flora may affect digestion and absorption, leading to abnormal metabolism of dampness, often accompanied by diarrhea or constipation. Patients should use medications such as Bifidobacterium triple viable powder, Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium bifidum viable granules, and Bacillus licheniformis viable capsules as directed by a physician to regulate the intestinal flora.
5. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones slows down metabolism, reducing the elimination of dampness and manifesting as bodily edema and fatigue. Patients should take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, and Yikang capsules as prescribed to supplement hormones and promote metabolism.
In daily life, one can consistently walk briskly for 30 minutes each day to expel dampness through sweating, or receive moxibustion treatment at acupoints such as Guanyuan (CV4) and Zusanli (ST36), about 2–3 times per week. Maintaining a regular lifestyle, avoiding staying up late, and adopting comprehensive health-regulating measures can help reduce internal dampness and maintain a light and comfortable physical state.
