Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
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Diagnostic Signs
Pale
Empty (Xu)
Key Characteristic Symptoms
Diagnostic Considerations
Poor appetite, epigastric discomfort and tiredness are enough in and of themselves to diagnose Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency.
Causes & Pathology
Common Causes
A diet lacking in nourishment and protein or undereating can cause a Deficiency of Spleen and Stomach Qi. Bad eating habits like having meals at irregular times, eating on the go or while working or stressed can also cause this pattern.
Pathological Mechanism
It's very common for Stomach Qi Deficiency to be paired with Spleen Qi Deficiency since both Organs are so closely intertwined. The Stomach receives food and then sends the pure portion to the Spleen. Together they rule transportation of food essences.
Since they're the root of Grain Qi for the whole body, if Qi is deficient in those Organs, it ends up lacking everywhere. This is why fatigue is one of the main symptoms of this pattern.
It is also why patients feel a feeling of weakness of the limbs as the Stomach and Spleen are too weak to transport the food essences to the limbs.
The uncomfortable feeling in the epigastrium is due to Deficient Stomach Qi failing to descend. The fact it's a mere discomfort and not a feeling of pain is indicative that this is a Deficiency condition and not an Excess one.
Treatment Approach
Treatment Principle
Tonify Stomach and Spleen Qi
Recommended Herbal Formulas
Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations
Eat only cooked foods (nothing raw). Particularly beneficial ingredients include: rice, millet, meat (especially beef), winter squash, vegetables, azuki beans, congee and warm or room temperature drinks such as warm milk.
Avoid cold, raw vegetables and fruits, juices, iced drinks, ice cream and frozen yogurt, salads, uncooked foods and the excessive use of sugar and other sweeteners.
Avoid strenuous exercise. Favor light activities such as Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, swimming, walking or bicycling.
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