Beat the Overeating Bloat

The holidays are here—a time of gathering, abundance, and festive foods. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season often challenges the Spleen and Stomach, the organs responsible for transforming food into energy and maintaining smooth digestion. Heavy meals, irregular eating, and holiday stress can weaken digestive Qi, leading to bloating, sluggishness, and discomfort. Add hormonal fluctuations to the mix, and the body’s ability to regulate warmth, fluids, and digestion can feel out of balance.

To stay comfortable while still enjoying your favorite treats, TCM encourages supporting the digestive system, harmonizing Qi, and preventing stagnation.

Warming Digestive Support

• Ginger (Sheng Jiang): Warms the middle burner, disperses cold, and eases nausea or bloating.

• Fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, and kimchi help regulate the gut’s “microbiome”—modern language for what TCM considers healthy gut Qi.

Hydration & Harmonizing Drinks

• Warm water: Supports Spleen function more effectively than cold drinks.

• Peppermint tea: Moves Liver Qi and relaxes digestive tension.

• Chamomile tea: Calms the Shen (spirit) and soothes the Stomach.

Fiber & Qi-Building Foods

• Leafy greens: Help clear heat and support regularity.

• Berries: Nourish Yin and provide gentle fiber.

• Oats: Strengthen the Spleen and promote smooth bowel movements.