Spleen Function 5 Gripping Ways to Improve : Why Do You Feel Heavy and Lose Appetite?

Understanding the Role of the Spleen in the Body

In modern medicine, the term “spleen” (脾臟) corresponds to both the pancreas and spleen. However, in Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), the spleen has a broader function beyond its anatomical structure. It governs the body’s ability to elevate energy, maintain proper organ positioning, and facilitate digestion. This theory has been validated over thousands of years through clinical practice. When spleen function is compromised, symptoms related to the body’s inability to lift energy manifest, and treatment targeting the spleen improves these conditions. A weak spleen can lead to sluggish digestion, poor nutrient absorption, and a general feeling of heaviness.

Symptoms of Spleen Deficiency

Do any of these symptoms sound familiar?

• You naturally eat less and feel fine.
• When physically exhausted, you prefer to eat lightly or skip meals and rest.
• Physical fatigue causes a noticeable reduction in appetite.
• You experience unexplained feelings of heaviness, often accompanied by a loss of appetite.
• Eating feels like a chore rather than a pleasure.
• Fatigue leads to sagging in the stomach, intestines, or other organs.
• You frequently feel bloated or experience indigestion.
• Your limbs often feel weak or heavy.

These signs indicate a deficiency in the spleen’s ability to elevate energy and maintain physiological balance. A weakened spleen can make digestion inefficient, leading to sluggishness and an overall lack of vitality.

The Spleen’s Role in Energy and Digestion

The body’s basic functions, such as digestion and nutrient distribution, involve complex processes managed by the spleen, which extracts nutrients, supports blood production, and helps maintain organ position against gravity.

 

A weak spleen can lead to fatigue, heaviness, organ prolapse, bloating, and digestive discomfort. If you often feel sluggish despite normal medical checkups, your spleen’s function may be impaired.

 

5 Ways to Support Your Spleen

1. Eat Less, Not More

When the spleen is overworked, the focus should not be on what to eat but on how to reduce the burden. Since the spleen is responsible for digestion and energy elevation, eating less allows it to recover. Overeating or consuming heavy, greasy foods can weaken the spleen further. Certain body types, such as water-dominant, yin-dominant, or individuals with a weak digestive system, are naturally prone to spleen deficiency. However, anyone can experience temporary spleen weakness due to irregular eating habits, stress, or overconsumption of processed foods.

2. Choose Spleen-Friendly Foods

Opt for foods that aid the spleen’s lifting function while minimizing digestive strain:

• Proteins: Plain chicken (avoid fried or heavily seasoned options), lean meats.
• Grains: Brown rice, potatoes, corn, oats.
• Vegetables: Ginger, pumpkin, garlic, radish, carrots, squash.
• Fruits: Apples, oranges, grapes, mangoes, dates.
• Herbal Teas: Ginseng, licorice root, ginger tea, chamomile.

Avoid excessive cold or raw foods, as these can burden the spleen and slow digestion. Instead, opt for warm, lightly cooked meals.

3. Move Your Body, Especially Your Limbs

The spleen governs limb movement, and physical activity stimulates its function. Engaging in light exercise, such as walking after meals, yoga, or stretching, can enhance spleen efficiency. A sedentary lifestyle can further weaken the spleen and lead to sluggish digestion. Additionally, enjoying meals in a relaxed and positive atmosphere supports digestive health. Stress and rushed eating can weaken the spleen’s ability to process food properly.

4. Regulate Meal Times and Reduce Stress

Irregular eating patterns can overburden the spleen. Try to eat meals at consistent times, and avoid skipping meals or eating late at night. Chronic stress also affects spleen function, so practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques can be beneficial.

5. Get Enough Rest and Sleep

Rest is crucial for the spleen’s recovery. Lack of sleep or irregular sleeping patterns can contribute to spleen deficiency, making you feel more fatigued and sluggish. Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support digestion and energy balance.

Conclusion

The spleen plays a crucial role in energy distribution, digestion, and maintaining organ stability.

If you experience heaviness, loss of appetite, unexplained fatigue, or digestive discomfort, consider supporting your spleen through mindful eating, choosing spleen-friendly foods, staying active, managing stress, and prioritizing rest.

 

By making these adjustments, you can restore balance, enhance overall well-being, and feel lighter and more energized throughout your daily life.

 

 

For the original Korean text, visit here.   If you’re curious about the basics of traditional Korean medicine and health, read the following article:

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