How to manage kidney essence deficiency
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Kidney essence deficiency can be improved through dietary regulation, adjustment of daily routines, moderate exercise, emotional management, and auxiliary traditional Chinese medicine methods. Such调理 should be carried out gradually and maintained consistently over the long term. If symptoms such as worsening soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, frequent dizziness and tinnitus, or明显 decline in sexual function occur, prompt medical consultation at a正规 hospital is advised. Increase intake of kidney-nourishing and essence-enriching foods such as walnuts, black sesame seeds, goji berries, and Chinese yam.
Deficiency of kidney essence can be improved through dietary regulation, adjustment of daily routines, moderate exercise, emotional balance, and auxiliary Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies. Improvement requires gradual, long-term persistence. If symptoms such as worsening soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, frequent dizziness and tinnitus, or significant decline in sexual function occur, seek timely medical evaluation at a qualified hospital.
1. Dietary Regulation: Increase intake of kidney-nourishing and essence-enriching foods such as walnuts, black sesame seeds, goji berries, and Chinese yam. Reduce consumption of raw, cold, spicy, greasy, and fried foods. Limit tobacco and alcohol use. Maintain regular, balanced meals and avoid overeating, which may impair spleen and stomach function and indirectly deplete kidney essence.
2. Sleep Adjustment: Ensure seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Avoid staying up late; going to bed by the亥hour (9–11 PM) is especially beneficial for kidney health. Avoid overexertion and maintain a proper balance between work and rest to allow the kidneys sufficient recovery time to replenish essence.
3. Moderate Exercise: Choose gentle exercises such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin (Eight Brocades), or jogging. Exercise three to five times per week for about 30 minutes each session. Avoid intense physical activity that may deplete kidney essence. Regular moderate exercise promotes blood and qi circulation, thereby nourishing the kidneys.
4. Emotional Regulation: Maintain a positive and relaxed mood. Avoid prolonged anxiety, depression, or anger, as negative emotions can disrupt organ function and lead to depletion of kidney essence. Practice mindfulness meditation or listen to soothing music to help regulate emotions.
5. TCM Support: Under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, consider therapies such as moxibustion, massage, or acupuncture. Common acupoints include Shenshu (BL23) and Guanyuan (CV4). Massaging the Yongquan point (KI1) may also be beneficial. Avoid self-medicating or performing treatments without professional advice to prevent additional strain on the body.
Daily care should emphasize keeping warm, particularly the waist, abdomen, and lower body, to prevent cold exposure from damaging the kidneys. Avoid excessive sexual activity, practice moderation in sexual life, and refrain from frequent masturbation to prevent depletion of kidney essence. Regularly monitor your physical condition and adjust your health regimen according to individual needs.
