July 7 marks Xiaoshu, the 11th solar term of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms. “Shu” means heat, and Xiaoshu signifies “minor heat”—the weather turns hot but not yet extreme, followed by Dashu (“major heat”), the hottest period of the year. As a folk saying goes, “During Xiaoshu and Dashu, it’s like steaming and boiling.” This season brings a mix of high temperatures, humidity, and frequent rainstorms.
People often overindulge in cold drinks and fruits, but such raw, cold foods can harm the spleen and kidneys, leading to “dysfunction of the spleen in transportation,” making spleen and stomach care crucial now, according to Dr. Wang Qiuming, deputy chief physician at Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s Digestive Center.
“Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds that the spleen prefers dryness and detests dampness,” Wang explained.
Summer heat and dampness easily impair the spleen, causing digestive issues like low fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Preventing summer ailments and staying healthy hinges on protecting the spleen and stomach, with the key being to dispel dampness and invigorate the spleen.
How to nourish the spleen and stomach during Xiaoshu? Wang offered tips:
Stay calm to soothe the mind. TCM believes a peaceful mood and smooth qi and blood align with the principle of “nourishing yang in spring and summer.” Practices like meditation and adequate sleep help achieve “coolness through mental calm.” Eat lightly and moderately. Humidity weakens spleen function, and overeating cold foods worsens issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and indigestion. Opt for light,easily digestible foods that clear heat, relieve summer heat, and strengthen the spleen. Avoid excessive cold foods to prevent “dampness trapping the spleen,” limit greasy and spicy foods, and try lotus roots, which aid in relieving restlessness and improving sleep.
Protect against sun and dampness. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities around noon to prevent overexposure to the sun and fatigue. With strong UV rays, use sun protection and sunglasses to shield the eyes. Drink a little salt water after excessive sweating to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
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