What to Eat to Nourish Kidney Qi
Recently, I have been feeling weak and listless, and overall I appear to lack energy. A friend mentioned it might be due to insufficient kidney qi. I would like to know what foods can help replenish kidney qi.
Kidney qi can be replenished through both diet and medication. The following are some common foods and medicines that help nourish kidney qi:
1. Black sesame seeds: Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and trace elements, they have the effects of nourishing yin to replenish the kidneys and moistening the intestines to relieve constipation.
2. Walnuts: Containing abundant protein, fat, vitamin E, and minerals such as zinc and magnesium, they can tonify kidney yang, benefit intelligence, and support brain health.
3. Lycium berries (Goji berries): Neutral in nature and sweet in taste, they enter the liver and kidney meridians and have functions of nourishing the liver and kidneys, improving vision, and strengthening tendons and bones. They are a commonly used remedy for kidney deficiency.
4. Chinese yam (Shanyao): It has the effects of strengthening the spleen and stomach, nourishing the lungs with body fluids, and fortifying the kidneys to reduce seminal emission. It is suitable for symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the lower back and knees and premature ejaculation caused by kidney deficiency.
5. Deer antler: A precious traditional Chinese herb, it has functions of invigorating kidney yang, strengthening tendons and bones, and enhancing immunity. However, due to its warm nature, it should not be taken in large quantities or for prolonged periods.
6. Eucommia (Du Zhong): Warm in nature and entering the liver and kidney meridians, it can nourish the liver and kidneys, strengthen tendons and bones, and lower blood pressure. It is suitable for symptoms such as lower back and knee pain caused by kidney deficiency and hypertension.