Food for the Spleen

Favored Foods

• According to Chinese medicine, the spleen responds well to the natural sweetness in grains and root vegetables, such as rice, wheat, oats, leeks, onions, squash, pumpkins, parsnips, beets and sweet potatoes. Also, the spleen favors easily digestible foods like stews or soups as opposed to raw or cold food. If raw or cold food is eaten, thoroughly chew it to increase its temperature.
  
  

Fruits & Sweets

• If consuming sweets and fruits, eat them separately from the main meals, preferably as between-meal snacks. This makes digestion easier on the spleen.
  
  

Liquids

• Liquids consumed with food don't agree with the spleen. Ideally, drink liquids between meals.
  
  

Favorite Colors

• Based on the Chinese system of correspondences, yellow, orange and red foods, such as squash, red lentils and carrots, are supportive to the spleen's functions.
  
  

Soothing Aromas

• The spleen works best when it is soothingly stimulated. Using aromatic herbs and spices prevents the spleen from becoming stagnant.