Bloating and Digestive Discomfort

Bloating and digestive discomfort are common complaints affecting people of all ages. Symptoms can include abdominal fullness, distension, gas, pain, irregular bowel movements, and a general feeling of heaviness after eating. Chronic digestive issues can significantly impact energy levels, mood, and overall health.

Understanding Bloating and Digestive Discomfort in TCM

In TCM, digestive problems are usually linked to:

• Spleen Qi deficiency impairing digestion and fluid metabolism
• Dampness accumulation causing bloating and heaviness
• Liver Qi stagnation disrupting digestive function and flow
• Food stagnation overwhelming the digestive organs

Treatment focuses on strengthening the Spleen, harmonising the Liver, resolving Dampness, and restoring the proper movement of Qi.

How Acupuncture Helps with Bloating and Digestive Symptoms

Acupuncture supports digestive health by:

• Regulating Qi movement in the stomach and intestines
• Stimulating digestive organ function
• Reducing inflammation in the gut
• Calming the nervous system to enhance digestion

Key points along the Stomach, Spleen, Liver, and Conception Vessel meridians are selected to promote smooth digestion and relieve bloating.

Recent studies published in the Journal of Integrative Gastroenterology (2022) show that acupuncture significantly improves symptoms of functional bloating, IBS, and general digestive discomfort compared to conventional care.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Digestive Health

Chinese herbal therapy complements acupuncture by working internally to:

• Strengthen Spleen and Stomach Qi
• Resolve Dampness and promote fluid metabolism
• Soothe Liver Qi to relieve tension affecting digestion
• Transform Food stagnation and improve nutrient absorption

Commonly used herbs include:

• Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Root): Strengthens the Spleen and dries Dampness
• Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel): Regulates Qi and transforms Phlegm
• Hou Po (Magnolia Bark): Moves Qi and reduces abdominal fullness
• Shan Zha (Hawthorn Fruit): Aids digestion and reduces food stagnation

Herbal prescriptions are customised based on your specific digestive patterns and constitution.

Different Types of Bloating in TCM

Spleen Qi Deficiency Bloating

Often associated with:

• Loose stools
• Fatigue after meals
• Pale complexion

Treatment strengthens Spleen Qi and improves digestion.

Liver Qi Stagnation Bloating

Typically triggered by stress or emotions, symptoms include:

• Bloating that worsens with emotional upset
• Fluctuating bowel habits
• Irritability or mood swings

Treatment smooths Liver Qi and supports emotional digestion.

Dampness and Food Stagnation Bloating

Seen in cases with heavy eating or poor diet. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal distension
• Nausea or belching
• Feeling worse after greasy or heavy foods

Treatment resolves Dampness, transforms stagnation, and clears excess.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Digestive Health

Supporting digestion requires daily care. At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Eating regular meals at consistent times
• Chewing thoroughly and eating slowly
• Avoiding overeating or eating late at night
• Choosing warm, cooked foods that are easier to digest
• Minimising raw, cold, greasy, or heavily processed foods
• Managing stress through breathing exercises, gentle movement, and mindfulness
• Staying hydrated but avoiding excessive cold drinks

Moderate exercise, good sleep, and emotional balance also contribute to a healthier digestive system.

Final Thoughts

Bloating and digestive discomfort don't have to be a daily struggle. With Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can restore balance, ease symptoms, and rebuild a strong digestive foundation.