There isn’t actually a literal equivalent in the Western world or an easy way to explain what the concept of qi represents. In the U.S. and other Western nations, qi is much like what we think of as bodily “energy,” which is why a qi deficiency can have a negative impact on our health.
According to TCM, qi is life force or vital energy. Everything in the world is made up of qi, including the physical body and the feelings a person has.
A general qi deficiency may cause some overall symptoms of fatigue and illness. Five common signs of qi deficiency include fatigue, a weak pulse, shortness of breath or no desire to talk, spontaneous sweating and a swollen tongue with teeth marks on the side.
Some foods are capable of actually giving us more energy and protect us from qi deficiency or liver stagnation better than others. To help with optimal hormonal balance and digestive health, focus on consuming a healing diet including these foods:
- Foods with lots of phytonutrients and fibre
- Things like veggies, fresh fruit, nuts and seeds (like flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and almonds)
- Healthy fats, like coconut oil, avocados, grass-fed butter and wild-caught salmon
- Eat more fermented foods
- These support gut health and improve digestion
- Try including bone broth, kefir and fermented vegetables to your diet
- Consume clean sources of protein
- Include animal foods that have been grass-fed, pasture-raised, and are cage-free or wild-caught
- Consider supplementing with adaptogenic herbs
- This unique class of healing plants promotes hormonal balance and protects the body from the ill effects of stress
- Best foods for a qi deficiency:
- Fermented foods for digestive health, including sauerkraut, kimchi and kefir
- Healthful, energizing fats, such as olive oil, salmon, coconut oil and avocados
- A wide variety of lightly cooked fruits, vegetables, and nuts
- Adaptogenic herbs, such as ginseng, should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner or trusted TCM practitioner
- Yang tonic foods and qi-circulating foods would be beneficial
- Foods to eat include:
- Lentils
- Quinoa
- Oats
- Malted grain beverages
- Root vegetables including sweet potato and taro
- Pumpkin and other squash
- Miso soup
- Orange peels
- Mustard leaf
- Foods to avoid include:
- Refined sugar
- Refined grains
- Fried or salty foods
- Iced or refrigerated foods or drinks
- Dairy products
- Citrus fruits
- Pork
- Yeasty foods, such as beer or dough
- Bananans
Balancing out your qi has many benefits to your health and well-being. When you are in balance, you can heal more quickly and everything in your life tends to go more smoothly. You can have greater insight and clarity about your path as well.
References:
nutritionnut84 