In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), health conditions are often analyzed through the lens of patterns or syndromes rather than specific disease names. Each TCM syndrome is associated with an imbalance in the interactions between internal organs.

But TCM does not separate the human body from the environment we live in. They advocate living close to nature to keep the body and mind healthy. Apparently, they were right. Studies show our genes change expression with each season. We even have a western diagnosis code for it! Seasonal affective disorder – SAD! You can’t make this up!!!

So as the year draws closed, we focus on common problems associated with the elemental system associated with Winter . . . the Water Element. During this time, the function of the Kidney & Bladder system are highlighted. In the TCM body clock theory (ancient circadian rhythm) states that the Bladder and Kidneys are most active from 3pm to 7pm and are challenged in Cold, the Winter. (Plunging Freaks – I got one coming for you guys!!!) Tastes that help the waterways is probably obvious, salty.

The Kidneys represent your financial system of resource management. Your Bladder represents your extra storage space and letting go abilities. After accounting for your body resources during the late afternoon, the water system lets go of what’s not needed and stores what is. Here are some common problems associated with declining health in the waterways:

Overactive Bladder (OAB):

• TCM Syndrome: Bladder Damp Heat
  • Description: In TCM, overactive bladder may be associated with excess heat and dampness in the bladder. Heat can cause urgency, while dampness may lead to frequent urination.
  • Symptoms: Urgent and frequent urination, discomfort or burning sensation during urination, dark and strong-smelling urine.
  • Herbal Formula: Ba Zheng San (Eight-Ingredient Powder with Added Plantain and Gentian)
  • Dietary Recommendations:
  • Drink plenty of water to help flush out stagnant waters.
  • Consume cooling foods like cucumber, watermelon, and mint.
  • Incorporate foods that promote urination, such as asparagus and celery.
  • Consider acupuncture to help detox and stimulate the waterways.
  • Avoid spicy and heating foods like chili peppers and garlic.
  • Minimize the intake of caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
  • Reduce or eliminate foods that may contribute to dampness, such as dairy and greasy/fried foods.

• TCM Syndrome: Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness
  • Description: TCM views diabetes-related conditions as involving the Spleen and its role in transforming and transporting nutrients. Qi deficiency and dampness may contribute to the accumulation of sugars in the body.
  • Symptoms: Fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination, sweet taste in the mouth.
  • Herbal Formula: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia)
  • Dietary Recommendations:
  • Emphasize easily digestible, cooked foods.
  • Include foods that nourish Spleen Qi, such as sweet potatoes and rice.
  • Consume moderate amounts of warming spices like ginger and cinnamon.
  • Practice mindful eating and chew food well to enhance digestion.
  • Avoid excessive consumption of raw, cold, or damp-producing foods.
  • Minimize intake of dairy, as it may contribute to dampness.
  • Reduce or eliminate refined sugars and processed foods.
  • Avoid overeating, and eat meals at regular times to support the Spleen.
  • Practice DayLight Eating – Only eat when it’s light outside.

Insulin Resistance:

• TCM Syndrome: Liver Qi Stagnation with Phlegm-Damp
  • Description: TCM attributes insulin resistance to stagnation of liver Qi and the presence of phlegm-dampness. This may affect the smooth flow of Qi and the body’s ability to transform and transport nutrients.
  • Symptoms: Fatigue, irritability, difficulty losing weight, abdominal bloating.
  • Herbal Formula: Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer)
  • Dietary Recommendations:
  • Include bitter foods like dark leafy greens to help move liver Qi.
  • Consume foods that support liver function, such as beets and artichokes.
  • Eat small, regular meals to prevent stagnation.
  • Do not eat late at night. Try to end all food consumption by sundown.
  • Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation or gentle exercises.
  • Avoid greasy, fried, and processed foods that contribute to dampness.
  • Minimize caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can exacerbate liver Qi stagnation.
  • Reduce or eliminate refined sugars and high-glycemic foods.
  • Practice Lunar Liver detox during the 3rd Quarter Moon.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS):

• TCM Syndrome: Spleen Qi Deficiency with Blood Deficiency
  • Description: TCM considers chronic fatigue as a result of weakened Spleen Qi and inadequate nourishment of the Blood, leading to a lack of energy.
  • Symptoms: Profound fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, pale complexion.
  • Herbal Formula: Si Wu Tang (Four-Substance Decoction)
  • Dietary Recommendations:
  • Emphasize foods that nourish the Blood, such as dark leafy greens and beets.
  • Include easily digestible, cooked foods to support the Spleen.
  • Consume lean proteins like poultry and fish.
  • Consider adding small amounts of warming spices like cinnamon or ginger to your diet.
  • Avoid excessive intake of raw, cold, or damp-producing foods.
  • Minimize or eliminate processed foods and refined sugars.
  • Limit dairy consumption, as it may contribute to dampness.
  • Be mindful of excessive physical exertion that may deplete Qi and Blood.

As with any TCM recommendations, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified practitioner who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual constitution and health condition. TCM treatments, including herbal formulas, are often part of a comprehensive approach that may include dietary changes, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any TCM treatments you plan to incorporate, especially if you are undergoing conventional medical treatment.

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*Article Credit: _{The author of this article utilized AI support for basic research queries, organization of reported data, and administrative assistance in typing the results. Thank you to the ChatGPT creators for making such a wonderful tool for small business owners. While I support unplugging and living a life closer to nature, AI can provide humans with the tools to do just that. Articles written without the use of any AI research or reporting assistance do not have * in the title. Enjoy those too!}