Father's Day Special | Unveiling the Secrets to a "Dad-tastic" Physique: Strengthening the Spleen, Nourishing the Kidneys, and Protecting the Liver for a Long and Healthy Life!
Father's Day Special | Unveiling the Secrets to a "Dad-tastic" Physique: Strengthening the Spleen, Nourishing the Kidneys, and Protecting the Liver for a Long and Healthy Life!
Why are the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys So Important for Men? – A TCM Perspective on Vital Organs
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys play crucial roles in men's health. Not only do they each have unique functions, but they are also, interconnected and mutually nourishing,forming a holistic system.
- The Spleen: The "Foundation of Acquired Essence" and "Source of Qi and Blood Transformation" The Spleen and Stomach are known as the "foundation of acquired essence" (后天之本). They are responsible for: digesting and absorbing- the food we consume, transforming the essence of food and water into: Qi (vital energy) and Blood, which are then transported throughout the body to nourish all organs. The Spleen also governs the transformation and transportation of water, preventing dampness from accumulating internally. If Spleen and Stomach function is poor, Qi and Blood production becomes insufficient, and men might experience- loss of appetite, abdominal distension, fatigue, sallow complexion, loose stools, and even affect the normal functions of other organs. A healthy Spleen ensures abundant Qi and Blood, providing a robust material basis for the Liver and Kidneys.
- The Liver: The Body's "General" and "Detoxification Hub" The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine states, "The Liver is the General's organ, from which strategies emerge." The Liver governs free coursing and discharge, responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, regulating emotions, and ensuring efficient digestion, metabolism, and circulation of Qi and Blood. Additionally, the Liver "stores Blood,"acting as the body's largest "blood reservoir," which is vital for a man's Qi and Blood generation and organ nourishment. If the Liver loses its smooth-flowing function or Liver Blood is insufficient, men might experience- flank pain, irritability, bitter taste in the mouth, dry mouth, indigestion, and: affect tendon flexibility and eyesight.。
- The Kidneys: The "Root of Congenital Essence" and "Source of Essence, Energy, and Spirit" The Kidneys store Jing (essence) and are the root of life;"the Kidneys are the root of congenital essence, governing growth, development, and reproduction."They not only store Kidney Essence but also: govern bones and produce marrow(regulating fluid balance), and open to the ears and two lower orifices(affecting hearing, urination, and reproduction).. As we age, the Kidney Essence gradually depletes,- which is a natural process. If Kidney Essence is insufficient, men often experiencesoreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, low spirits, hair loss, hearing decline, memory loss, and even affect: reproductive function, and lead to issues like- frequent night urination and prostate problems.
When the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney functions are imbalanced, such as- Spleen deficiency leading to Liver Blood insufficiency and Kidney Essence depletion, a series of chain reactions can occur in a man's body. This not only impacts quality of life but also lays the groundwork for chronic diseases. Therefore, this Father's Day, let's learn how to help our fathers better- strengthen their Spleen, nourish their Kidneys, and protect their Liver, empowering them with a robust, "Dad-tastic" physique!
Strengthening the Spleen, Nourishing the Kidneys, and Protecting the Liver: Holistic Conditioning from Within – Aligning with Heaven, Earth, and Humanity
TCM emphasizesdifferentiating syndromes, and, applying holistic principles, stressing the harmony between humans and nature. To strengthen a father's Spleen, nourish his Kidneys, and protect his Liver, we need to approach it from various aspects: diet, daily routine, emotional well-being, and appropriate exercise, aiming to achieveYin-Yang balance and abundant Qi and Blood.
1. Dietary Conditioning: Food as Medicine, Nourishing the Three Organs
The concept of "food as medicine" is incredibly important in health preservation. Daily dietary choices form the foundation for safeguarding a father's Spleen, Liver, and Kidney health.
- Spleen-Strengthening Foods – Boosting Qi, Harmonizing the Stomach, Transforming Dampness, and Generating Blood:
- Sweet-tasting foods: Yam, sweet potato, pumpkin, red dates(jujubes), which are sweet and mild in nature, can tonify Spleen Qi and enhance digestive and absorptive functions.
- Grains: Millet, japonica rice, Job's tears (coix seed), corn, which strengthen the Spleen and promote diuresis, providing essential energy for the body.
- Easily digestible foods: Porridges, noodles, stews, cooked until soft and tender, reduce the burden on the Spleen and Stomach.
- Warming and Spleen-strengthening: Warm spices like ginger, green onion, and garlic can be used in moderation to warm the middle burner and invigorate the Spleen.
- Liver-Protecting Foods – Clearing Heat, Regulating Qi, and Nourishing Liver Blood:
- Green vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, kale, celery, etc., rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, help to detoxify the Liver and promote the smooth flow of Liver Qi.
- Bitter Foods Bitter gourd, dandelion, chrysanthemum, etc., have properties to clear heat, detoxify, and drain Liver fire. Consuming them in moderation can aid Liver detoxification.
- Quality protein: Moderate intake of fish, eggs, lean meats, and soy products provides "raw materials" for liver cell repair, but avoid excessive intake to prevent increasing the liver's burden.
- Kidney-Nourishing Foods – Benefiting Essence, Consolidating Jing, and Replenishing Marrow:
- Black foods: Black sesame, black beans, black rice, black fungus, mulberry etc., enter the Kidney meridian and have significant effects in nourishing Yin, tonifying the Kidneys, blackening hair, and benefiting essence.
- Nuts: Walnuts, chestnuts, cashews etc., benefit the Kidneys, invigorate the brain, and strengthen bones and muscles.
- Seafood: Moderate consumption of oysters, sea cucumber, shrimp etc., rich in zinc, selenium, and other trace elements, helps to benefit essence, consolidate Kidney function, and strengthen the body.
- Medicinal-food ingredients: Goji berries (wolfberries), Eucommia bark, Euryale ferox seeds (qian shi), lotus seeds etc., are traditionally used as excellent ingredients for tonifying Kidney Qi.
- Dietary Precautions:
- Regular meals, chew thoroughly: Avoid overeating to reduce the burden on the Spleen and Stomach, allowing them to better transform food essence to nourish the Liver and Kidneys.
- Balanced nutrition, prioritize Spleen and Stomach: Emphasize a balanced diet with both meat and vegetables, and a mix of refined and coarse grains, focusing on light, warm, and easily digestible foods.
- Light and low-fat, limit spicy foods: Reduce the metabolic burden on the Liver, avoid "damp-heat accumulation," and minimize stimulation of Liver fire.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and alcohol cause immense damage to the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys! Alcohol requires liver metabolism, and excessive drinking directly damages liver cells; smoking depletes Kidney essence and Lung Qi, accelerating organ aging. Strongly advise fathers to quit smoking and severely restrict alcohol consumption.
- Foods That Are Bad for the Kidneys: Strong tea, pickled vegetables, long-simmered soups, high-oxalate foods, alcohol, hotpot, fast food and fried items, and sports drinks — should be consumed in moderation or avoided.
2. Daily Routine and Emotional Well-being: Dual Cultivation, Harmonizing Qi and Blood
Beyond diet, a regular daily routine and good emotional management are equally crucial for Spleen, Liver, and Kidney health. TCM emphasizes the "Ziwu Liuzhu" (circadian rhythm of Qi flow), where different organs are most active during specific times.
- Regular Routine, Ensuring Ample Sleep:
- Early to bed, early to rise: TCM believes thatthe Liver and Gallbladder meridians are most active during Zishi (11 PM - 1 AM) and Choushi (1 AM - 3 AM). Therefore, ensuring sleep by 11 PM allows the Liver to rest and repair sufficiently at night, which is vital for detoxification and blood nourishment.
- Avoid staying up late: Staying up late is extremely depleting to Liver Blood and Kidney Essence, and also damages Spleen and Stomach Qi, making it an "invisible killer" of men's health. Chronic lack of sleep leads to Qi and Blood deficiency, accelerating organ aging.
- Emotional Regulation, Maintaining a Joyful Mood: "Excessive contemplation harms the Spleen" (思则气结伤脾), and "anger harms the Liver" (怒则伤肝). Chronic anxiety, depression, irritability, and excessive worry can impair Spleen and Stomach function and lead to stagnant Liver Qi, causing Qi stagnation. Encourage fathers to cultivate positive hobbies, such as listening to music, reading, fishing, playing chess, and spending time with friends and family to maintain an optimistic and cheerful mindset. Learning mindfulness techniques like simple deep breathing exercises can also help soothe Liver Qi and calm emotions.
3. Moderate Exercise: Unblocking Meridians, Strengthening the Body
Appropriate exercise promotes the circulation of Qi and Blood throughout the body, helping to maintain and enhance the functions of the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys.
- Exercise Choices : Advise fathers to choose gentle and TCM-inspired exercises like: walking, light jogging, Tai Chi, or Baduanjin (Eight Brocades). These exercises feature slow, graceful movements, emphasizing the integration of breath and intention, which effectively regulates Qi, stretches tendons and bones, and promotes Spleen and Stomach function.
- Exercise Benefits : They promote Qi and Blood circulation, strengthen the physique, aid the recovery and enhancement of Spleen, Liver, and Kidney functions, and also alleviate mental stress.
- Important Notice: Remind fathers- to progress gradually and exercise according to their capacity, avoiding overexertion and strenuous exercise, which could deplete Qi and Blood and be counterproductive.
4. Unique TCM Therapies: Holistic Care, Enhanced Protection
Some simple TCM therapies can further boost a father's Spleen, Liver, and Kidney health.
- Acupoint Massage: Teach your father, or massage these acupoints for him, to help unblock meridians, nourish the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys, and promote Qi and Blood circulation:
- For Spleen : Zusanli (ST36)(four finger-breadths below the kneecap, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia; strengthens Spleen and Stomach, harmonizes digestion, and supports vital energy), Zhongwan (CV12)(located 4 cun above the navel; strengthens the Spleen and aids digestion).
- For Liver : Ganshu (BL18)(on the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra)Tai Chong Acupoint(on the dorsum of the foot, in the depression distal to the junction of the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones, where pulsation can be felt; pressing it should elicit a sore and distended sensation), Qimen (LV14)(on the chest, directly below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space).
- For Kidneys : Shenshu (BL23)(on the lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebra), Yongquan (KI1)(on the sole of the foot, in the depression on the anterior sole, at the junction of the anterior one-third and posterior two-thirds of the line connecting the base of the second and third toes to the heel), Guanyuan (CV4)(3 cun below the navel). (You can supplement with simple diagrams or video demonstrations.)
- TCM Herbal Teas/Simple Medicinal Soups :Under the guidance of a Kang Won TCM Practitioner, you can choose herbal teas or medicinal soups suitable for your father's constitution.
- Spleen-strengthening teas: Dried tangerine peel and ginger tea(regulates Qi and strengthens Spleen),Hawthorn berry and malt tea(aids digestion and strengthens Spleen).
- Liver-nourishing teas :Use chrysanthemum and goji berries- to make a tea, or rose flower tea, which helps to clear Liver fire and regulate Qi.
- Kidney-tonifying teas: Goji berries and red dates,or mulberry tea, simple and convenient for daily consumption.
- Simple medicinal soups :Such as yam and Euryale ferox seed porridge(strengthens Spleen and tonifies Kidneys), Eucommia bark with pig kidney soup(tonifies Kidneys and strengthens the lower back), Goji berry leaf with pig liver soup(nourishes Liver and brightens eyes)Four Gods Soup (Si Shen Tang)(strengthens Spleen and eliminates dampness).
- Foot Soaking: Before bed, soak feet in hot water, adding ginger slices, mugwort leaves (ai ye), or coarse salt. This warms the meridians, invigorates blood circulation, stimulates acupoints like, Yongquan (KI1), helps to descend heat, aids peaceful sleep, and indirectly nourishes the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys.
Important Considerations and Warm Reminders
When implementing health preservation for your father, a few points require special attention:
- Regular Check-ups and Consulting a Kang Won TCM Practitioner: Health preservation is a long-term process, but it should never replace medical diagnosis. Advise your father to undergo regular health check-ups. If he experiences persistent discomfort, he should promptly consult a professional Kang Won TCM Practitioner for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
- Personalized Conditioning: TCM emphasizes "one person, one prescription." Each individual's constitution, lifestyle, and health condition are unique, so health preservation methods should be customized. It's best to seek guidance from a professional Kang Won TCM Practitioner to develop a personalized conditioning plan suitable for your father.
- A Child's Company is the Best Medicine: While caring for your father's physical health is important, a child's companionship, active listening, and emotional support are equally indispensable for his mental well-being. A warm father-child bond itself is the best "health tonic," capable of effectively alleviating stagnant Liver Qi and promoting harmony in the Spleen and Stomach.
Kontea Recommendation Products
Tonic Paste
Effects: Nourishing kidneys and strengthen the nerves and bones, and eradicate rheumatism.
Suitable for: People who experience bodily pains, frequently visit the bathroom at night, hair in white, sweating during night,sex apathy, spermatorrhea and etc.
Cordyceps Flower Soup
Effects: Cordyceps flower can calm the lungs and heavy breathing, improves the yang energy, and is incredibly beneficial for people with a sensitive oesophagus. It is rich in nutrients, including 18 types of amino acids, 12 types of vitamins, and 17 different minerals, can prevent lack of oxygen and fatigue, lowers blood sugar levels, and protects the liver. Combining cordyceps with wolfberries and Chinese yam results in better focus and extends life expectancy.
Suitable for: People who has dry coughs and asthma caused by kidney deficiency.
Strong Waist Soup
Effects: People of the modern era are under heavy stress; their bodies are getting frail and they need to start taking care of their liver in order to focus and improve their health. Eucommia and black beans are great for the kidney, energy, and bone and nerve strength, and Gordon Euryale seeds are great for removing dampness in the spleen as well.
Suitable for: Recommended for people with frequent lower body pains and urination in the middle of the night. If you experience leucorrhoea (whitish or yellowish discharge), it may be caused by excessive internal dampness, and it is recommended to include this into your diet.
Full of Vim and Vigour Deer’s Tail Soup
Effects: The deer's tail is rich in protein and vitamins, which can effectively strengthen the waist and kidney, greatly supplement deficiency, enhance physical strength, eliminate fatigue, and promote blood circulation. It is a great health care food for the whole body. Cooking together with the traditional tonic used herbs - Codonopsis Pilosula and Cordyceps Flower can revitalize the body, protect the kidneys and liver, improve the Yin & Yang energy and immune system as well. KONTEA chooses to use healthy and active free-range chickens, and carefully selected and seasoned only with Japanese scallops and sea salt.
Suitable for: People who suffer from lower back and leg pains, afraid of cold, dizziness, apathy, and sexual malfunction.
Black Bean Soup
Effects: People of the modern era are under heavy stress; their bodies are getting frail and they need to start taking care of their liver in order to focus and improve their health. Eucommia and black beans are great for the kidney, energy, and bone and nerve strength, and Gordon Euryale seeds are great for removing dampness in the spleen as well.
Suitable for: Recommended for people with frequent lower body pains and urination in the middle of the night. If you experience leucorrhoea (whitish or yellowish discharge), it may be caused by excessive internal dampness, and it is recommended to include this into your diet.
Liver Cleanser Herbal Tea
Effects: People of the modern era are under heavy stress; their bodies are getting frail and they need to start taking care of their liver in order to focus and improve their health. Eucommia and black beans are great for the kidney, energy, and bone and nerve strength, and Gordon Euryale seeds are great for removing dampness in the spleen as well.
Suitable for: Recommended for people with frequent lower body pains and urination in the middle of the night. If you experience leucorrhoea (whitish or yellowish discharge), it may be caused by excessive internal dampness, and it is recommended to include this into your diet.
Liver Nourishing Paste
Effects: Nourish the liver, support detoxification from alcohol, remove excess dampness for optimal gallbladder function
Suitable for: People who work long hours, with irregular sleep pattern, consume alcohol regularly, smoke, or have a diet high in greasy and salty food.
Wolfberry Soup
Effects: Straining the eye also strains the liver. When it comes to protecting the eyes, the best is prinsepia, and next is wolfberry. Prinsepia can dissipate internal, remove dampness, and is kind to the liver. Wolfberries promotes clear vision, perks up the mood, nourishes the liver, and allows down ageing.
Suitable for: People who are experiencing poor vision and eyesight. Great for people who looks at electronic devices for long periods at a time.
Ginseng Soup
Effects: Ginseng promotes strength in the Chi, lungs, and spleen, and can fight against fatigue, increases metabolism and helps with the immune system, as well as slows down ageing. Chinese yam is often called “natural ginseng”, as it also nourishes the lungs and spleen, and together with Polygonatum Odoratum, promotes healthy and optimal organ function.
Suitable for: Frail-bodied patients recovering from a big disease or treatment, bad appetite, and profusely sweating people.
This Father's Day, let's use our actions to express our profound love for our fathers. From diet and daily routine to emotional well-being and unique TCM therapies, let's comprehensively care for our fathers' Spleen, Liver, and Kidney health, helping them enjoy a vibrant, healthy, and long life!
Kang Won Herbalist
Kang Won TCM Practitioner also recommends seeking medical attention as soon as rheumatic symptoms begin to appear. Early consultation allows us to provide you with suitable treatment and prevention plans based on your symptoms and underlying causes.
Our TCM Practitioner specializes in diagnosing and treating various internal health issues in the internal medicine field. We are dedicated to balancing the body's energy flow to alleviate internal problems and improve overall health. Therefore, if you have any concerns about rheumatic diseases, we welcome you to consult with us in person to learn more.
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