Kidney deficiency is one of the most taboo terms for men, as it not only involves personal privacy but also relates to a person’s dignity.
“Nine out of ten men have deficiency” has been a common saying throughout history, indicating that kidney deficiency is a prevalent condition among men. However, very few actually seek medical examination and treatment due to concerns about their image. Many resort to self-medicating, which often backfires, not only failing to aid in treatment but also delaying the progression of the disease. Below, we will discuss the symptoms of Kidney Yang deficiency and provide four methods for regulation that can yield visible results if adhered to.
What is Kidney Yang deficiency? What are its symptoms?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) considers Kidney Yang to be akin to the sun in the sky. If a person’s kidney essence is insufficient, it is like the sun not providing enough warmth, leading to feelings of coldness.
Another scenario is after a major illness, when Yang energy is depleted, the kidney Qi becomes weak and damaged, resulting in a decline in physical constitution. From a Western medical perspective, this is seen as a decrease in immunity, while in TCM, it is viewed as a weakened constitution, classified as Kidney Yang deficiency.
What are the symptoms of Kidney Yang deficiency?
1. Cold Sensitivity
In TCM, it is believed that “Yang deficiency leads to external cold.” Thus, the most common symptom of Kidney Yang deficiency is cold sensitivity. Yang energy has a warming effect; individuals with Yang deficiency often experience cold hands and feet, which is a significant characteristic of this condition.
Those with sufficient Yang energy have smooth blood circulation, keeping their hands and feet warm, while those with Yang deficiency consistently have cold extremities.
2. Lower Back Pain
Lower back and knee pain is also a common symptom of Kidney Yang deficiency. The lower back, back, and knees may feel cold and painful. If you typically experience issues like lower back pain, it may be caused by Kidney Yang deficiency.
3. Impaired Prostate Function
If Kidney Yang is impaired, issues such as sexual dysfunction and problems with sperm production may arise. Additionally, frequent urination at night, urgency, and abnormal urination are common symptoms of Kidney Yang deficiency.
4. Edema
Edema is closely related to Kidney Yang deficiency, particularly noticeable in the legs, as internal resistance below the waist can lead to lower limb edema.
5. Pale Complexion
Other symptoms include a pale complexion, easy fatigue, and excessive sweating. Individuals with this condition cannot engage in heavy physical labor; even slight movement can lead to quick fatigue. When feeling low, they may appear listless. Memory decline should also be noted, as these are additional manifestations of Kidney Yang deficiency.
What should be done for Yang deficiency? Here are 4 methods for regulation that can yield visible results.
1. Diet
First, from a dietary perspective, developing good eating habits is essential. It is advisable to consume warming foods such as lamb, leeks, longan, black beans, and yam. Some fruits also have kidney Yang replenishing properties, such as bananas, mangoes, and papayas. It is generally best to avoid cold drinks and raw foods to prevent damage to the spleen and stomach and to conserve Yang energy.
2. Sleep Schedule
Secondly, adjusting work and rest schedules is important. Maintaining adequate sleep and reducing late nights is crucial, as staying up late can lead to an imbalance of Yin and Yang in the body. Couples should engage in moderate sexual activity to avoid fatigue caused by excessive desire.
3. Avoid Prolonged Sitting
Thirdly, exercise regulation is vital. Many individuals experience kidney deficiency due to prolonged sitting. Regular moderate exercise can promote blood circulation within the body, not only replenishing Yang energy but also expelling toxins.
4. Herbal Supplementation
Finally, herbal remedies for Yang deficiency include ingredients such as deer antler (lu rong), cistanche (rou cong rong), cordyceps (dong chong xia cao), ginseng (ren shen), and goji berries (gou qi zi). These should be used under the guidance of a physician.
Conclusion: There are many methods to improve kidney deficiency, which can be categorized into Yin and Yang. The kidneys in humans are similarly divided into Yang deficiency and Yin deficiency. Therefore, before supplementing the kidneys, it is essential to distinguish whether your condition is Yin deficiency or Yang deficiency. Only by choosing the correct method for kidney supplementation can kidney health be restored.