In the middle of the night, when silence reigns around every corner, many people are immersed in sweet dreams. However, for those who suffer from bloating, this moment that should be calm becomes unbearable. The discomfort in the stomach is like a heavy stone pressing on the chest, making it difficult to toss and turn, and it is difficult to sleep. This condition not only affects the quality of their sleep, but also has a profound impact on their mental state and quality of life the next day.
In TCM theory, stomach bloating is not just a simple indigestion problem, it reflects the inside of the body"Pneumatic engines"Maladjustment. "gas"In traditional Chinese medicine, it is the basic substance that sustains life activitiesWhatever"Pneumatic engines"can lead to health problems. Stomach bloating is usually associated with"Dampness and heat in the spleen and stomach"、"Qi stagnation"or"Food accumulation"Relevantly, these terms describe a state of upward reversal of gastric qi, indigestion, and food stagnation.
Dampness and heat in the spleen and stomach and stomach distention
"Spleen"In traditional Chinese medicine, it is responsible for transporting water and dampness and food essences, while"Stomach"It is the main organ that receives and initially digests food. When"Damp heat"Accumulation in the spleen and stomachThis will affect the normal function of these two organs, leading to indigestion, food stagnation, and eventually a feeling of bloating. "Damp heat"It can be an irregular diet, excessive intake of greasy foods, or the effects of a hot and humid environment.
The effects of qi stagnation
"Qi stagnation"It refers to the obstruction of the flow of qi in the body, which in the case of stomach distension usually manifests as an unsmooth stomach qi, resulting in stomach discomfort and a feeling of fullness. Mood swings, especially stress and anxiety, are"Qi stagnation"Because mood swings directly affect the flow of qi.
Problems with food accumulation
"Food accumulation"It refers to food that stays in the stomach for too long and is not digested and absorbed effectively. This can be due to overeating, an unreasonable diet, or weakened digestion. Food accumulation not only causes stomach bloating, but can also cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea.
In response to these conditions, TCM advocates relieving stomach bloating by adjusting dietary habits, improving lifestyle, and proper self-massage to reconcile the spleen and stomach and unblock the ventilators. For example, gently massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction can promote the flow of qi and the digestion of food, and avoiding overeating and choosing easily digestible foods are all practical improvements.
In the vast treasure trove of knowledge of TCM, stomach bloating is not only a common symptom of discomfort, but also a manifestation of an imbalance in the body. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that stomach distension is closely related to the dysfunction of the spleen and stomach and poor qi. Here are two TCM methods that can be implemented at home without spending a penny to harmonize qi and improve stomach bloating.
1.Adjust your diet: Return to a peaceful diet
Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the peacefulness and moderation of the diet. When the stomach is bloated, it is recommended to use easy-to-digest and mild foods, such as millet porridge, pumpkin, etc., and avoid cold, spicy, and greasy foods, which are easy to hurt the spleen and stomach and aggravate stomach bloating. At the same time, eating regularly and in portions will not only help the stomach adapt, but also avoid overloading the stomach.
2.Gentle massage: Stimulates the circulation of qi and blood
Gently massaging the abdomen, especially in a clockwise direction, can promote the flow of qi and blood in the abdomen, adjust the qi, and thus relieve stomach bloating. In addition, massages involving acupuncture points such as Zusanli also help to strengthen the spleen and stomach and improve digestion. These methods are simple and easy to implement in everyday life.
Expand your knowledge: Adjust your daily habits
In addition to diet and massage, lifestyle changes also play an important role in relieving stomach bloating. It is advisable to maintain appropriate physical activities such as walking, tai chi, which not only strengthen the physique,It can also promote the circulation of qi and blood and reduce stomach bloating. At the same time, maintaining a good attitude and avoiding excessive mood swings are also the key to maintaining a healthy spleen and stomach.
When it comes to avoiding stomach bloating at night and how it affects sleep, it's important to take simple yet effective daily management measures. Here are a few practical tips based on TCM concepts and modern lifestyle habitsDesigned to help improve symptoms of bloating and promote better night's rest.
1.Smart Diet: Easily regulates stomach gas
Regular and quantitative measurements: Maintain a regular diet and avoid overeating, especially at dinner. Eating regularly helps the stomach to form a digestive rhythm and reduce the burden on the stomach.
Food choices: Choose easy-to-digest, low-fat foods, such as cooked vegetables, lean meats, and soy products, and avoid greasy, spicy, and high-fat foods, which may worsen an upset stomach.
Chew sufficiently: Chewing slowly can help food be better digested and absorbed, reduce the burden on the stomach, and prevent excessive gas.
2.Life adjustment: harmonize gastric function
Dinner time:Dinner should be done 3 to 4 hours before bedtime to give the stomach enough time to digest the food and avoid regurgitation of stomach contents when lying down, which can cause discomfort.
Moderate exercise: A light walk after a meal can promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and help food digestion, but avoid strenuous exercise to avoid increasing intra-abdominal pressure and exacerbating stomach bloating.
Decompress and relax:Long-term stress and tension can affect digestive function, so taking deep breathing, yoga or meditation to reduce stress can help relieve bloating.
3.Bedtime habits: Calm the stomach and heart
Avoid staying in bed immediately after dinner :Maintaining a slightly inclined posture, such as sitting and reading a book or listening to a light **, can help prevent acid reflux.
Soak your feet in warm water: Soaking your feet in warm water before going to bed can promote blood circulation, help relax your body and mood, and indirectly reduce stomach discomfort.
Suitable for Drinks:A small glass of warm water or ginger tea can gently stimulate gastrointestinal motility and promote digestion, but caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided.