With the accelerated pace of life, modern people’s dietary structure and lifestyle have undergone tremendous changes, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort in many. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), regulating the stomach and intestines requires starting with daily diet and routines, and applying TCM theories and methods can effectively protect gastrointestinal health.
In terms of diet, TCM advocates “taking grains as the staple, and eating less meat.” Grains refer to soybeans, wheat, rice and other grains, which are rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and dietary fiber, and have a nourishing effect on the intestines and stomach. Meat is less digestible and should be eaten in moderation. Each meal should not be eaten to excess, and some room should be left to aid digestion. Avoid irritating foods such as raw, cold, greasy foods, so as not to damage the stomach and intestines.
In terms of routines, maintaining regular work and rest is very important. Do not overeat before bedtime, as this may affect digestion. Insufficient sleep can also lead to gastrointestinal disorders. Maintain smooth bowel movements and prevent constipation. Take appropriate exercise regularly to enhance gastrointestinal motility and increase disease resistance.
In terms of emotional adjustment, maintaining a peaceful state of mind is essential, avoiding excessive anxiety, fear, anger and other emotions, as these may cause gastrointestinal disorders. Learn to relax and keep the balance of yin and yang inside the body.
For treatment, TCM has many remedies to protect the stomach and intestines. For example, ginger water can warm the stomach and stop vomiting, Danggui decoction can harmonize the stomach and relieve pain. If there are symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea, Si Jun Zi decoction and Ginseng Renshen decoction can be taken to regulate the spleen and stomach. External application of musk and mugwort can also warm the stomach area.
In summary, TCM regulates the body as a whole, through diet, routines, emotions and other aspects, which can effectively protect gastrointestinal health. The reasonable use of TCM, health regimens and fostering a scientific lifestyle can help modern people stay away from gastrointestinal diseases.
In addition to diet, routines and emotional adjustment, TCM also emphasizes other aspects of protecting gastrointestinal health:
TCM Medication
– Huang Lian Jie Du Tang contains rhizoma coptidis which clears heat and dries dampness, cortex phellodendri which clears heat and dryness, and other herbs that regulate qi movement and relieve pain. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on gastritis and peptic ulcers.
– Liu Jun Zi Tang soothes the liver, strengthens the spleen, clears heat and resolves dampness. It is often used for chronic gastritis and gastrointestinal discomfort caused by irregular eating habits.
– Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang contains Pinellia ternata to dry dampness and resolve phlegm, gastrodia elata to extinguish wind and stop spasms, and other herbs to regulate qi. It is used for gastrointestinal disorders caused by emotional upsets.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion
Acupuncture can regulate qi and blood circulation, relieve pain, adjust bodily functions and immunity. Moxibustion with Artemisia argyi has a warming effect that can dispel cold and strengthen the spleen and stomach. Combining acupuncture and moxibustion helps balance yin and yang, and alleviate gastrointestinal problems.
Tai Chi, Qigong and Massage
Gentle exercises like Tai Chi promote digestion and harmonize spleen and stomach through rhythmic abdominal breathing and body movements. Qigong massage techniques andChinese medical massage also have benefits of smoothing qi flow, detoxifying and expelling cold.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Avoiding smoking, alcohol and highly caffeinated drinks, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep and rest are also important for gastrointestinal health. Developing good habits according to TCM principles can improve holistic wellbeing.
In summary, TCM offers a holistic approach to protect the intestines and stomach through herbal treatment, non-drug therapies, dietary and lifestyle changes. Combining TCM wisdom with modern medical care can effectively prevent and treat many gastrointestinal issues.