The Lung System
Functions of the Lungs and Large Intestine
LUNGS
From a Western perspective, the lungs supply the body with clean air and release “used” air and toxins. But from an Eastern perspective, the lungs house the “Po,” which supports our basic senses, creates and distributes Defensive Qi (Wei Qi) that protects the body from harmful pathogenic factors and allows us to take in new concepts while releasing old ideas and emotions.
LARGE INTESTINE
Western science tells us that the large intestine absorbs food and water and excretes waste. Additional understandings from a Western perspective are that it houses digestive bacteria and filters toxins from the environment.
How Can Nutrition Support the Lung System?
Within all of the organ systems, there are foods that support the health of the system, as shown in the image to the left. There are also foods to avoid in order to support the systems. For example, foods to avoid to improve the health of the lung system include alcohol, coffee, beef, dairy, fried and greasy foods, and raw pears.
The Five Elements
Of the five interrelated Elements, the Lungs and Large Intestine are associated with Metal. To learn more about the Metal Element in TCM, click the button below: