The Stomach is paired with the Spleen as the Earth element organs. While the Spleen transforms and transports, the Stomach receives and ripens. Together, they are the 'Post-Heaven Essence' — the source of all acquired Qi and Blood. The Stomach loves warmth and moisture, hates cold and dryness. Its natural direction is downward (sending food to the intestines), while the Spleen's direction is upward (raising the clear essence).
Stomach Heat: Bad breath, increased appetite, gum swelling/bleeding, mouth ulcers, acid regurgitation, constipation, thirst for cold drinks. Stomach Cold: Lack of appetite, preference for warm drinks and food, stomach pain relieved by warmth, nausea, vomiting clear fluid, cold limbs. Stomach Yin Deficiency: Dry mouth and throat, hunger with no desire to eat, dry stool, thin tongue coating.
According to TCM, these eating habits destroy Stomach Qi: 1. Eating too fast or while stressed. 2. Eating irregular hours. 3. Overeating (stuffing the Stomach). 4. Eating too much cold/raw food. 5. Drinking excessive liquids with meals (dilutes digestive fire). 6. Eating late at night (Stomach needs rest too). 7. Combining too many different foods in one meal (confuses the Stomach).
Stomach-warming foods: Ginger tea before meals, rice congee (healing for all Stomach conditions), warm soups, stews, millet porridge, cooked vegetables, chicken soup, sweet potato. Stomach Yin nourishing: Lotus root soup, pear, lily bulb, honey water, milk (warm), tofu. Avoid: Ice water, raw salads, excessive coffee, alcohol, spicy food, deep-fried foods, very sour foods.
CV12 (Zhongwan): 'Middle Cavity' — the #1 point for all Stomach issues. Located midway between navel and sternum. ST36 (Zusanli): 'Leg Three Miles' — strengthens Stomach and Spleen. PC6 (Neiguan): Relieves nausea and vomiting. CV6 (Qihai): Strengthens overall digestive fire. BL21 (Weishu): Stomach Back-Shu point. ST44 (Neiting): Clears Stomach Heat, toothache.
1. Eat at consistent times daily. 2. Breakfast like a king (7-9 AM is Stomach time), lunch like a prince, dinner like a pauper. 3. Eat warm, cooked foods — your Stomach is like a cooking pot. 4. Chew 20-30 times per bite. 5. Stop at 70-80% full. 6. Don't drink large amounts with meals (sip warm tea). 7. Avoid eating when emotionally upset. 8. Include all five flavors (sweet, sour, bitter, pungent, salty). 9. Eat slowly and mindfully. 10. Walk 100 steps after eating (ancient TCM advice).
SEASONS provides personalized dietary guidance based on your Stomach and Spleen condition.