Click here to check previous chapter regarding characteristics and daily wellness routine of Energetic Constitution or Spleen Deficiency Constitution~
In addition to the energetic constitution and spleen deficiency constitution, certain children are susceptible to developing a constitution marked by food accumulation.
Due to the fragility of their spleen and stomach, along with immature digestive and absorptive functions, it is essential to foster healthy eating habits. Young children often lack sensitivity to hunger and fullness sensation, leading them to overconsume preferred foods. Without parental oversight, persistent unhealthy eating behaviours can impair the function of the spleen and stomach, resulting in food accumulation.
This condition involves food that remains undigested within the spleen and stomach. If food accumulation continues, it can compromise spleen and stomach functionality, leading to spleen deficiency. This issue can create a self-perpetuating cycle, ultimately resulting in an ingestion constitution.
Characteristics of Ingestion Constitution
|
Definition |
A compromised digestive system leads to impaired digestive function. This results in food or breast milk stagnating in the gastrointestinal tract, hindering proper digestion and absorption. |
|
Main Characteristics |
Weakness in the spleen and stomach causes food to accumulate. This accumulation leads to a diminished appetite and a lack of interest in eating. Even when food is consumed, digestion becomes challenging, resulting in bloating and abdominal pain. |
|
Formation factor |
Ø Weak constitution and irregular eating habits.
Ø Excessive eating, inconsistent meal schedules, or consuming overly greasy, cold, and hard-to-digest foods can result in food stagnation within the body. This stagnation disrupts the proper circulation of qi and blood. |
|
Physical characteristics |
The body gradually becomes thin and weak |
|
Daily physical condition |
Ø Pale or yellowish skin tone
Ø Struggling to focus Ø Feeling easily annoyed and crying in frustration at times Ø Having trouble sleeping at night Ø Experiencing irregular bowel habits, constipation, or foul-smelling stools with undigested food |
|
Dietary habits |
Ø Poor appetite, lack of desire to eat, or eating very little
Ø Avoids milk, occasionally regurgitates milk or vomits partially digested, sour-smelling meals, and feels unwell after unintentionally consuming inappropriate food Ø Typically favours greasy, cold, and other hard-to-digest options |
|
Characteristics of growth and development |
Ø Growth in height and weight may not meet standard levels.
Ø Cognitive development might also progress at a slower pace. |
|
Impact of the external environment to the body |
Prone to illness with weather changes, often showing symptoms like colds, fever, or diarrhea. |
|
The pattern of disease progression after infection |
Ø Prone to experiencing issues such as indigestion, loss of appetite, constipation, and diarrhea, which can lead to malnutrition.
Ø In severe cases, it may affect the child’s nutrient absorption and growth development.
|
Daily Wellness Routine
(1) Dietary Adjustments
A. Select Appropriate Foods
- • Opt for easily digestible and fibre-rich foods, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, to support gut motility and help eliminate internal stagnation.
- Include ingredients like barley, Chinese yam, ginger, Chenpi, and Mai Ya in daily meals. These ingredients help remove dampness, strengthen the spleen, dispel cold, and improve digestion. Prepare dishes like barley porridge and yam soup, which are tasty for young children and support their spleen and stomach function.
B. Reduce Stimulants
- Avoid consuming overly greasy, spicy, cold, and sweet foods, as they can lead to food stagnation.
(2) Acupoint Massage
By massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction and the ZuSanLi (ST36) acupoint, gastrointestinal function can be regulated, helping children improve digestion and promote bowel movements.
此文章还有以下语言版本：
简体中文 (Chinese (Simplified)) 
Melayu (Malay)
