Weight gain
I have been very thin since childhood.
I feel nauseous and have no appetite in the morning, and I can't eat much when it's hot.
I only eat more in the evening.
My bowel movements are very watery, like diarrhea, but my stomach doesn't hurt.
I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement.
I feel tired every day and never feel fully rested.
I am 177 cm tall and weigh 62 kg, and I have recently lost another 2 kg.
I would like to know what Chinese herbal medicine I can take to gain weight.
cc, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/09
Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Netizen,
Hello.
Based on your symptoms, it appears that you may be experiencing functional diarrhea from a Western medicine perspective.
However, it is advisable to conduct stool cultures, microscopic examinations, and a colonoscopy to rule out any organ pathology or parasitic issues.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) standpoint, your symptoms may indicate spleen deficiency and dysfunction, where the spleen is unable to manage fluids, leading to diarrhea.
It is recommended to use herbs that strengthen the spleen and eliminate dampness, such as Shenling Baizhu San or Weiling Tang, possibly adding herbs like Kudzu and Coptis to help with dampness and weight gain.
Additionally, it is important to manage stress levels to prevent liver Qi from overacting on the spleen, which could exacerbate diarrhea.
It would be best to consult a seasoned TCM practitioner for a thorough pulse diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosis.
Wishing you good health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong
Director, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Fengyuan Hospital
Reply Date: 2004/11/09
More Info
When it comes to addressing the issue of healthy weight gain through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it's essential to understand that TCM takes a holistic approach to health, focusing on balancing the body's internal systems rather than merely treating symptoms. Your description suggests that you may be experiencing a combination of digestive issues and possibly an imbalance in your body's energy (Qi) levels, which could be contributing to your low appetite and weight loss.
In TCM, the spleen is considered a vital organ for digestion and nutrient absorption. A weak spleen can lead to symptoms such as poor appetite, fatigue, and loose stools, which you have described. Therefore, the goal of TCM treatment for healthy weight gain would be to strengthen the spleen, improve digestion, and enhance overall vitality.
Here are some TCM strategies and herbal remedies that may help you gain weight in a healthy manner:
1. Dietary Adjustments: TCM emphasizes the importance of diet in maintaining health. Incorporating warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest can help strengthen the spleen. Foods such as congee (rice porridge), sweet potatoes, and cooked vegetables are beneficial. Additionally, including more protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, and legumes can support weight gain.
2. Herbal Formulas: Certain TCM herbal formulas are known to tonify the spleen and improve appetite. Some commonly used herbs include:
- Ren Shen (Ginseng): Known for its ability to boost energy and improve appetite.
- Bai Zhu (Atractylodes): Helps strengthen the spleen and improve digestion.
- Dang Shen (Codonopsis): Often used as a milder alternative to ginseng, it helps to tonify Qi and improve energy levels.
- Huang Qi (Astragalus): Known for its immune-boosting properties, it also helps to strengthen the spleen and improve overall vitality.
3. Acupuncture: Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for stimulating appetite and improving digestion. Specific acupuncture points can help balance the body's energy and enhance the functioning of the digestive system.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Ensuring that you have a regular eating schedule can help train your body to expect food at certain times, which may improve your appetite. Additionally, engaging in light physical activity, such as walking or gentle yoga, can stimulate digestion and promote a healthy appetite.
5. Addressing Underlying Issues: Since you mentioned experiencing frequent bowel movements that are watery, it may be beneficial to consult with a TCM practitioner or a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying gastrointestinal issues. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or food intolerances could be contributing to your symptoms and may require specific treatment.
6. Rest and Stress Management: Chronic fatigue and a feeling of always wanting to sleep can be signs of an imbalance in your body's energy. Ensuring you get adequate rest and managing stress through practices such as meditation or tai chi can help improve your overall well-being and energy levels.
In summary, gaining weight healthily through TCM involves a combination of dietary changes, herbal remedies, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments. It is advisable to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and constitution. They can help create a tailored treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and promotes healthy weight gain. Remember, patience is key, as healthy weight gain is often a gradual process.
Similar Q&A
Struggling with Weight Gain: Seeking Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Hello Doctor: This issue has been bothering me. I am 27 years old and have been very careful with my diet (also no constipation), but I still keep gaining weight (BMI 30.5), which is considered obese, right? I would like to seek help from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Are there a...
Dr. Chen Weili reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Anonymous, Both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine emphasize one key point for weight loss—exercise. Regardless of dietary restrictions, the body will strive to adapt by utilizing the least amount of energy to perform the greatest amount of work. Exercise is ...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Gain: Seeking Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Herbal Remedies for Weight Gain and Boosting Energy in Taiwan
Are there any Chinese herbs that can help with weight gain or replenish blood and Qi?
Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Hello! To gain weight, you can start with a high-protein, high-calorie diet. The principles are: 1. Eat small, frequent meals. 2. Choose foods that are small in volume but high in protein and calories (such as cake). 3. High biological value proteins (such as eggs, milk, and meat...[Read More] Herbal Remedies for Weight Gain and Boosting Energy in Taiwan
Herbal Remedies for Boosting Metabolism and Reducing Appetite: Safety and Long-term Use
Hello Doctor: Recently, I visited a Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic for weight loss, and the doctor prescribed me some medications: Guizhi Fuling Wan (4.0 grams), Sheng Di Huang (2.0 grams), Shuangjie Tongsheng San (7.0 grams), and He Ye (1.0 gram). I would like to ask if the...
Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Lisa/Netizen of 1/22, 1. Obesity is a common social issue in economically developed countries, with statistics showing that the obesity prevalence rate among the population exceeds 30%. 2. Obesity can lead to various serious health conditions, including hypertension, diabet...[Read More] Herbal Remedies for Boosting Metabolism and Reducing Appetite: Safety and Long-term Use
Effective Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Weight Control
Does Traditional Chinese Medicine have methods to control weight? Is taking Chinese herbal medicine effective?
Dr. Chen Minglun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Selina, traditional Chinese medicine can aid in weight loss, but it must be prescribed according to the individual's constitution and symptoms. Some may experience high stress, others may have gastrointestinal issues, and some may have poor metabolism, resulting in diff...[Read More] Effective Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Weight Control
Related FAQ
(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Traditional Chinese Medicine Nutrition(Nutrition)
Health Supplements(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Dietary Therapy(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Height(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Gastrointestinal(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Menopausal Disorders(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Lower Back(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Insomnia(Traditional Chinese Medicine)
Acid Reflux(Traditional Chinese Medicine)