Is Focusing Too Much on Gut Health Actually Bad for Your Gut?
Maintaining a healthy gut has numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. However, from the perspective of traditional Eastern medicine, overemphasizing gut health alone can pose certain risks.
The Gut-Brain Connection—But What About Other Organs?
It’s true that the gut and brain are closely connected, but other organs also have a significant relationship with the brain. Prioritizing gut health above all else might be an imbalanced approach.
The Gut and Overall Body Balance in Traditional Eastern Medicine
In Traditional Eastern Medicine, the body is thought to function based on the balance of the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water). The gut, particularly the large intestine (associated with the lungs), belongs to the “Metal” element.
However, an excess of “Metal” can suppress the “Wood” element, which is linked to the liver. This means that an overemphasis on gut health may weaken liver function, potentially leading to symptoms like fatigue, irritability, and insomnia.
Additionally, the small intestine is associated with the heart. If the heart becomes too strong, its energy eventually affects the lungs. In other words, excessively strengthening the small intestine could inadvertently harm the large intestine.
The Imbalance of Gut-Healthy Foods
Many foods considered beneficial for gut health primarily support the lungs and large intestine, with some also benefiting the heart and small intestine. However, the kidneys and liver are often overlooked.
Common Gut-Healthy Foods and Their Organ Associations:
- Natto – Spleen
- Kimchi – Lungs
- Kiwi – Kidneys
- Mushrooms – Spleen
- Yogurt – Lungs
- Apple – Spleen, Heart
- Brown Rice – Spleen
- Soy Milk – Lungs
- Olive Oil – Lungs
- Garlic – Spleen, Lungs
- Onion – Spleen, Lungs, Heart
- Cheese – Lungs, Liver, Spleen
- Legumes – Spleen
- Burdock Root – Lungs
- Barley – Spleen
- Hijiki (Seaweed) – Kidneys
- Asparagus – Lungs, Heart, Liver, Kidneys
- Green Onions – Lungs, Stomach
- Banana – Stomach
- Coffee – Heart
- Avocado – Liver
- Oligosaccharides – Spleen
From this list, it is evident that gut-friendly foods tend to favor the lungs and spleen. This is a natural consequence of their high fiber and fermented content. However, foods that benefit the kidneys and liver are relatively few, making it important to include them consciously in the diet.
The Potential Risks of Overemphasizing Gut Health
- Nutritional Imbalance
Many gut-friendly foods, such as fermented foods (yogurt, natto, kimchi) and fiber-rich vegetables, belong to the “Metal” and “Fire” elements. While they support gut function, overconsumption may weaken the “Wood” element, potentially impairing liver function.
- Cooling of the Gut and Slower Metabolism
Fermented foods and raw vegetables can cool the gut. In Traditional Eastern Medicine, excessive cooling is believed to reduce blood circulation and slow metabolism. Women, in particular, may be more susceptible to these effects, leading to menstrual irregularities and general fatigue.
- Impact of Diaphragmatic Breathing
Diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing is often recommended alongside gut health practices. However, excessive diaphragmatic breathing may put strain on the diaphragm and internal organs, particularly for women. Pregnant women may experience increased pressure on the stomach, leading to shortness of breath and anemia.
Diaphragmatic breathing is not necessarily an easy or universally beneficial technique. It is essential to start by opening the chest and ensuring proper posture to avoid unnecessary strain on muscles and joints.
- Different Types of Constipation Require Different Approaches
Many gut-health foods help moisten the lungs and promote bowel movements. However, constipation can have various causes. Some cases result from lung dryness, while others stem from weakened small intestine function.
For small intestine-related constipation, simply increasing fiber intake may not be effective. Instead, digestive-supporting foods such as onions, vinegar, citrus fruits, oligosaccharides, and fermented foods might be necessary.
When addressing constipation through diet, it’s important to tailor food choices to one’s unique constitution and underlying causes.
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Key Takeaways for a More Balanced Approach
To maintain optimal gut health while avoiding imbalance, consider the following:
- Avoid Over-Reliance on Gut-Healthy Foods
- In addition to fiber and fermented foods, incorporate green and yellow vegetables and iron-rich foods to support liver function.
- Consume Black-colored foods that nourish the kidneys.
- The spleen is naturally supported by mildly sweet foods, so no need to overemphasize them.
- Incorporate Warming Foods
- Add warming ingredients like ginger, garlic, and cinnamon in moderation. (Pregnant women should avoid strong spices.)
- Balance Breathing and Exercise
- Combine diaphragmatic breathing with chest breathing and light exercise to support overall circulation and balance.
Conclusion
Taking care of your gut is undoubtedly beneficial. However, from the perspective of Traditional Eastern Medicine, maintaining whole-body balance is equally important. Rather than focusing solely on gut health, pay attention to other organs and body temperature regulation for a more holistic approach to well-being.
