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TCM wisdom to keep your tummy healthy this spring
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FOR many, spring is a time for stomach trouble as harmful microbes start to bloom and shifting temperatures put strain on the digestive system.
To keep your stomach and the rest of your digestive system healthy, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners recommend eating meals at regular intervals and choosing bland foods. They also encourage regular exercise and wearing attire suitable for unsettled weather.
These days, irregular and immoderate eating is one of the most common triggers of digestive complaints. Such bad habits overwork the stomach, creating strain and potentially illness, says Dr Wang Wei of Yueyang Hospital attached to the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Generally, three meals of moderate size at regular times is the cornerstone of a healthy diet. Bland foods with fresh vegetables and some coarse grains are recommended for most people. A stricter regime may be required for those with a history of digestive illness. For example, peptic ulcer patients should avoid drinking alcohol, strong tea and coffee; while patients with gallbladder inflammations should limit their fat intake.
Even as temperatures trend higher, sudden cold snaps are still common this time of year in Shanghai. According to TCM beliefs, pathogenic cold energy can damage the stomach and thus cause a relapse or aggravation of a chronic digestive problem. Thus, Dr Wang strongly advises patients with chronic complaints not to wear thin clothing and stay as warm as possible.
Dr Wang also emphasizes the importance of staying positive, as stress can also lead to gastrointestinal dysfunction and illness. For example, long-term anxiety and stress may cause ulcers.
Physical exercise can boost immunity for the entire body, including the digestive system. Jogging, cycling and other aerobic exercises can all be good choices, as long as they are done properly. Before starting any exercise regime, talk with your doctor first.
Apart from adopting a healthy lifestyle, professional acupuncture therapy is also widely used to help those with chronic digestive problems relieve symptoms and prevent relapses, according to Dr Wang.
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