The Spleen System
Functions of the Spleen and Stomach
SPLEEN
From a Western perspective, the spleen supports the immune system by producing antibodies and filtering blood. From an Eastern perspective, the spleen transforms food into “Food Energy” (Gu Qi) and distributes it through the body, lifts and holds internal organs, and houses the “Yi,” responsible for thinking and concentration.
STOMACH
The stomach receives food and begins the digestive process. From a Western understanding, it also protects against the invasion of bacteria that enters the digestive tract. From an Eastern understanding, it also controls the downward movement of Qi and sends clean parts of food to the Spleen and impure parts to the Small Intestine.
How Can Nutrition Support the Spleen 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 spleen system include dairy, frozen foods, tofu, pork, celery, spicy or sugary foods, and melon.
The Five Elements
Of the five interrelated Elements, the Spleen and Stomach are associated with Water. To learn more about the Earth Element in TCM, click the button below: