Can spleen deficiency cause cold hands and feet?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

TCM holds that the spleen governs transformation and transportation. Spleen deficiency leads to insufficient production of qi and blood, impairing the body's ability to convert nutrients into adequate qi and blood to nourish the limbs and extremities. Additionally, spleen deficiency may disrupt the circulation of yang qi and weaken its warming function, resulting in cold hands and feet, often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal distension, loose stools, and fatigue. Cold hands and feet may also be related to yang deficiency, stagnation of qi and blood, or exposure to cold environments.

Generally, spleen deficiency may lead to cold hands and feet; however, cold extremities are not solely caused by spleen deficiency, as other factors may also contribute. If in doubt, it is advisable to evaluate the condition based on overall symptoms. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the spleen governs transformation and transportation. Spleen deficiency leads to insufficient production of qi and blood, impairing the body's ability to convert nutrients into adequate qi and blood to nourish the limbs and extremities. Additionally, spleen deficiency may disrupt the circulation of yang qi, weakening the body’s warming function, thereby resulting in cold hands and feet, often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal distension, loose stools, and fatigue.

Cold hands and feet may also be related to yang deficiency, stagnation of qi and blood, or exposure to cold environments. If cold extremities occur without other typical signs of spleen deficiency, the cause may not be spleen deficiency. It is important to assess specific symptoms to identify the underlying cause accurately and avoid misdiagnosis.

When cold hands and feet are accompanied by symptoms related to spleen deficiency,调理 can be achieved through dietary adjustments and maintaining regular daily routines—such as consuming warm, easily digestible foods, avoiding raw or cold foods, and keeping the limbs warm. If symptoms persist, professional evaluation and targeted interventions are recommended to determine the root cause and provide appropriate treatment.

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What to eat for symptoms of Yang deficiency

In general, individuals with yang deficiency often experience symptoms such as sensitivity to cold, cold hands and feet, and aversion to chilly environments. They benefit from consuming warm-natured foods or those that tonify yang energy, such as lamb, ginger, longan, Chinese yam, and garlic chives. When eating these foods, it is important to observe related contraindications and precautions, avoid consuming large amounts of raw or cold foods simultaneously, maintain a balanced diet, and combine proper nutrition with moderate exercise to effectively regulate and improve a yang-deficient constitution.

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Can Jin Kui Shen Qi Wan be taken for spleen and kidney deficiency-cold?

In general, Jinkui Shenqi Pills can be taken for spleen and kidney deficiency-cold. However, this medication primarily targets kidney yang deficiency and has limited effect in regulating spleen deficiency, so other approaches should be combined for better improvement. The main function of Jinkui Shenqi Pills is to warm and tonify kidney yang. Individuals with spleen and kidney deficiency-cold often exhibit symptoms related to kidney yang deficiency, such as cold hands and feet, soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, and clear, frequent urination. Taking this formula can effectively replenish yang qi.

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Is squid considered a cold-natured food?

In general, according to traditional Chinese medicine theory, squid is considered a cold-natured food. Moderate consumption is harmless for most people, but individuals with a cold body constitution should be cautious. Excessive consumption of squid by those with a cold constitution may increase internal coldness, leading to discomfort such as cold hands and feet or abdominal pain; therefore, large amounts should be avoided. When cooking, it is advisable to pair squid with warming ingredients such as ginger and garlic.