Why should we nourish the kidneys in winter?The scientific connection between traditional Chinese medicine theory and seasonal health care

Nourishing the kidneys in winter is one of the core practices of the theory of "correspondence between nature and man" of traditional Chinese medicine.In winter, the yang energy in nature is restrained, and all things are closed and stored. The kidneys are responsible for sealing and storing essence, which is highly consistent with the characteristics of winter climate.At this time, nourishing kidney qi through diet, work and rest, and acupoint health care can enhance immunity, prevent cold syndrome, and lay the foundation for good health in the coming year.This article will start fromTheoretical basis of traditional Chinese medicine,Risk of kidney damage in winter,Specific maintenance methodsIt unfolds on three levels and combines modern medical perspectives to systematically analyze the importance of nourishing the kidneys in winter.

1. Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Kidneys are the “innate foundation”, so nourishing the kidneys in winter will get twice the result with half the effort.

The "Huangdi Neijing" clearly states that "if the essence is not stored in winter, the disease will be warm in spring", emphasizing the impact of kidney tonifying in winter on health throughout the year.Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the kidney governs water, stores essence, and controls bones to produce marrow, and its yang energy is the driving force of life activities.Cold air circulates in the kidneys in winter, and excessive consumption can easily lead to problems such as soreness and weakness in the waist and knees, fear of cold, and decreased immunity.Modern medical research also shows that adrenaline hormone secretion increases in low temperature environments, which increases the burden on the kidneys. Proper care can reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease (quoted from "Chinese Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine").For example, black foods such as black beans and black sesame seeds are rich in anthocyanins, which can assist in antioxidants and are in line with the theory of "black enters the kidneys" of traditional Chinese medicine.

2. Three major causes of kidney damage in winter: cold, staying up late and high-salt diet

Cold directly causes renal vasoconstriction and affects the filtration function; staying up late destroys the golden time of "nourishing the kidneys" (23:00-1:00); high-salt diet increases the pressure of water and sodium retention.Data shows that the number of kidney disease emergency visits in winter increases by about 20% compared with other seasons (Source:

"Report on the Epidemiology of Kidney Disease in China"

2022 data

).Common misunderstandings such as over-reliance on electric blankets, sweating during strenuous morning exercises, etc. will accelerate the leakage of yang energy.Recommend to passFoot warmth(Yongquan point application),Moderate warming(Mutton and Wolfberry Soup) and other gentle ways to protect the kidneys.

3. Practical Guide: Four steps to create a winter kidney nourishing plan

1.Food supplement program: Use yam, walnuts, sea cucumbers and other tonic ingredients to avoid overheating such as too much chili pepper;
2.Living adjustment: Go to bed early and get up late, ensure 7-8 hours of sleep, and avoid holding in urine at night;
3.principles of movement: Choose soothing exercises such as Tai Chi and Baduanjin, and massage the waist and eye points (Shenshu point);
4.Emotional conditioning: Avoid fearful emotions (think "fear of kidney damage" in traditional Chinese medicine) and relieve stress through meditation.

Summary: Nourishing the kidneys means nourishing the life, and winter is the key window for kidney qi repair.

Nourishing the kidneys in winter is by no means a blind supplement, but rather strengthening the "foundation" of the human body through systematic conditioning that conforms to the laws of nature.From the "Shenqi Pills" in Zhang Zhongjing's "Synopsis of the Golden Chamber" to modern nutrition's Omega-3 supplements (such as deep-sea fish oil), the essence of ancient and modern methods is to maintain the balance of kidney function.It should be noted that patients with chronic kidney disease should follow the doctor's advice and should not take medicinal materials such as aconite and deer antler on their own.It is recommended to choose a suitable plan based on physical identification (such as yang deficiency or yin deficiency) to allow the kidneys to "overwinter" smoothly.

Quote sources:
1. "The Yellow Emperor's Internal Classic·Suwen" The Four Qi Regulating the Spirit
2. "Physique of Traditional Chinese Medicine" by Professor Wang Qi from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
3. Traditional kidney-tonifying Chinese patent medicines such as Tongrentang (Liuwei Dihuang Pills) and Guangyuyuan (Guilingji)